New Delhi, India

BCCI secretary Jay Shah announced that the Indian Cricket Board has immediately released $120,000 (INR 1 crore) for the treatment of former batter Anshuman Gaekwad, who is battling blood cancer in a medical facility in London, UK. BCCI took this call after former greats Kapil Dev and Sandeep Patil urged the board to come forward and help Gaekwad in this crisis hour.

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In a statement released by the board, Shah instructed BCCI to release a sum of INR 1 crore to provide financial help to the ailing cricketer undergoing treatment. Shah had also spoken with his family, ensuring them of extended support throughout and that the board will monitor his situation.

Shah said he hopes Gaekwad will come out of it as a winner.

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"Mr Jay Shah has instructed the BCCI to release INR 1 crore with immediate effect to provide financial assistance to India's veteran cricketer Mr Anshuman Gaekwad, who is battling cancer," the BCCI apex council said in a statement.

"Shah has also spoken to Mr Gaekwad's family to take stock of the situation and extend support," the statement continued. "The board stands by Gaekwad's family in this hour of crisis and will do whatever is essential for Mr Gaekwad's quick recovery."

"The BCCI will continue to monitor Mr Gaekwad's progress and is confident that he will come out of this phase strongly,” the statement concluded.

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Gaekwad, 71, played 40 Tests and 15 ODIs for India between 1975 and 1987, later becoming a national selector and then the coach of the Indian Team.