Jamia names sports complex after Pataudi

Jamia Millia Islamia in Delhi has named its sports complex after former Indian cricket captain Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi and a new pavilion after Virendra Sehwag.

"We have decided to name the university sports complex after Pataudi, taking into consideration his eminent contribution to the world of sports," Jamia spokesperson Mukhesh Ranjan told IANS.

"He became captain at the age of 21 and played for India for 15 years. Besides, his significant contribution to the world of sports, Pataudi is one of the most popular captains," he added.

Veteran actress and Pataudi's wife Sharmila Tagore will on Saturday inaugurate the "Nawab Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi Sports Complex" and also unveil the "Virender Sehwag Pavilion" in the presence of Sehwag, a former Indian cricketer and an alumnus of Jamia Millia Islamia.

Pataudi was the Wisden Cricketer of the year in 1968. He played for India between 1961 and 1975. He made his Test debut against England in Delhi in December 1961.

Speaking of Virender Sehwag Pavilion, the official said: "Sehwag happens to be one of our alumni and he is a source of inspiration for the hundreds and thousands of sporting people.

"By naming a stadium after him, we hope that this will inspire students to excel in sports and other walks of life."

Sehwag played his first one day international in 1999 and joined the Indian Test Team in 2001. He attended Jamia Millia Islamia for graduation.

--IANS

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