DAR ES SALAAM: THE cricketing world, both in Tanzania and abroad, is mourning the loss of legendary cricketer Mohan Govind Vaghela (pictured), who passed away in Dar es Salaam earlier this week.
Dinesh Vaishnav, Senior Administrator of the Reunion Legends Cricket of Tanzania Group, shared the sad news with the cricketing community on behalf of group leader Kanu Rathod. Vaishnav revealed that Vaghela had been under medical care for some time before passing away on December 9 and was laid to rest yesterday at Mikocheni Crematorium in Dar es Salaam.
Vaghela, a key figure in Tanzanian cricket, was widely respected for his exceptional athleticism and his belief in the principle of “a healthy body, a healthy mind.”
Kanu Rathod, based in the UK, was one of the first to express his grief. Having recently visited Vaghela during the 2nd Reunion of the Cricket Legends of Tanzania Tour, Rathod fondly remembered him as “a cricketer par excellence” and assured that his legacy would live on for generations.
ALSO READ: International figures commend Cricket Legends Reunion
Veteran Cricketer Shokat Damji paid tribute through a heartfelt poem, while Vinoo Vadgama, a veteran of the 1950s and 60s, described Vaghela as “a smiling, happy and cool cricketer.”
Kulbir Gupta, based in Canada, shared a touching message, recalling Vaghela’s sharp reflexes and athleticism, particularly his skill at close-to-the-bat catches. Gupta also spoke of Vaghela’s humility, which made him even more beloved by those who knew him.
Since the news of Vaghela’s passing broke, condolence messages have flooded in, reflecting the high regard in which he was held within the cricketing community.
Former National Umpire and cricket legend Bhavin Vaishnav expressed his deep sorrow, saying, “Mohan Vaghela has been our neighbour for years and he still feels like family. His passing is a personal loss. We learned so much about cricket from him and another veteran, Vinoobhai Vallumbia, who is also our neighbour.”
From the Group Management, legendary cricketers Bashir Tejani and Kishore Gajjar also conveyed their condolences, fondly recalling Vaghela’s prowess as a fielder. Gajjar, in particular, remarked, “Watching him on the field was a treat for the cricket fraternity.”
East Africa’s cricketing community has lost a true legend, but Vaghela’s contributions to the sport will continue to be remembered for years to come.
Subhash Modi, an International Cricket Council (ICC)– accredited International Umpire based in Mombasa, described Vaghela as “a wonderful man, a fine cricketer and a great sportsman.” Modi added, “Above all, he was a kind-hearted individual with a soft-spoken voice. He will be deeply missed,” as he extended his heartfelt condolences to the Vaghela family.
The cricketing community mourns the loss of a remarkable individual whose contributions to the sport and legacy will never be forgotten.
