Bhabani Banerjee, the man who helped Delhi register their lone triumph in Santosh Trophy National Football Championship in 1944, has passed away here after a brief illness.
Banerjee, who died yesterday at his residence, was 88. He is survived by his wife, one son and one daughter.
A product of Raisina Bengali School, tall and well-built Banerjee was known for his wing play and stinging left footers. His finest moment came in the 1944 Santosh Trophy on home turf when Delhi stunned a star-studded Bengal 2-0 in the final.
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Banerjee struck the second goal in the second session. His performance in the tournament earned him praise from Bengal manager Balaidas Chatterjee.
But when Chatterjee invited him to join Mohun Bagan next season, Banerjee turned down the offer saying he would like to complete his graduation from Delhi University before turning into a full-time footballer.
Next year, Banerjee achieved yet another first when he guided New Delhi Heroes to the inaugural DCM Trophy title in the capital defeating King's Own Yorkshire Light Infantry in the final. He once again scored in Heroes' 3-2 victory.
After spending his best days with New Delhi Heroes, Banerjee later joined Raisina Sporting.
Delhi Soccer Association has mourned the demise of Banerjee. AIFF vice-president and DSA president Subhash Chopra expressed his heart-felt condolences.
