The local cricket fraternity has suffered a massive blow following the passing of veteran gaffer and administrator, Dee Thakur.
He died on Wednesday at the age 54. Cricket Namibia (CN) officially announced his demise yesterday.
Until his passing, Thakur was the head of CN’s high performance programmes and also the coordinator of coaches’ education. The late charismatic Thakur has been a pivotal cog in advancing CN’s development agenda, especially rolling out youth development and talent identification programmes to all parts of the country.
Not only has he contributed immensely to the growth of the game, Thakur also coached the country’s various national teams, including the senior men’s side, which is affectionately known as the Eagles.
He guided the country’s various sides to top international honours, such as recording historic wins against powerhouses like Scotland and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and helping Namibia reach the final of the Sunfoil One-day and Three-Day competitions for the first time in history.
Former CN chief executive officer, Laurie Peters described the late Thakur as a legend of the game, who leaves behind a massive legacy.
“Dee was a kind, friendly, generous and lovely person. He certainly left a legacy in Namibian cricket,” said Peters.
Retired Namibian bowler, Rudie van Vuuren – who remains one of a few Namibian athletes to represent the country in two different World Cups (cricket and rugby) – also paid tribute to Thakur, saying he was a friend to all and enemy to none in the cricket fraternity.
“Dee had a significant role to play in the lives and development of countless players and coaches. Our condolences are with his wife and children. We wish God’s hand and calmness over them in this time,” said van Vuuren.
Another Namibian cricket great, Daneel van der Walt also remembered Thakur, saying: “What a wonderful and gentle friend to lose. It was a privilege to do life together”.
CN executive member Helga Volschenk equally shared his message of condolences, saying: “Heaven has gained another angel. We will sincerely miss him”. - ohembapu@nepc.com.na