When Pravin Amre made his debut as India batsman in South Africa, Ajit Wadekar, the team coach, had a simple advice for him: Play as if you are playing at Shivaji Park.
Wadekar, who led India to their first Test series win in both England and West Indies, passed away at the age of 77 on August 15 in Mumbai.
Speaking at a condolence meet organised by the Mumbai Cricket Association, Amre recalled how Wadekar shored up his confidence.
"I remained 12th man in 12 Test matches. I was not getting the chance in Test," he said.
"When (Wadekar) Sir was the coach, it was the historic tour (to South Africa). Sir had faith in me. (One day) he told me you are playing the Test tomorrow," said the right-hander.
"He not only gave me the Test cap in the dressing room, but even today I remember his words...he said, 'just imagine you are playing at Shivaji Park, and bat'."
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