PRIME Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday expressed grief over the loss of life of the 88-year-old former India cricketer Salim Durani.

Taking to Twitter, he shared a heartfelt notice and wrote, “Salim Durani Ji had a very old and strong association with Gujarat. He played for Saurashtra and Gujarat for a few years. He also made Gujarat his home. I have had the opportunity to interact with him and was deeply impressed by his multifaceted persona. He will surely be missed.”

“I had the opportunity to interact with the great Salim Durani Ji on various occasions. One such occasion was in January 2004 at a program in Jamnagar, in which a statue of the great cricketer Vinoo Mankad Ji was inaugurated. Here are some memories from the program,” he wrote.

Meanwhile, different political leaders and sports activities personalities additionally expressed grief on the demise.

“Saddened by the news that cricket legend SalimDurani has passed away. Born in Kabul too early for the white-ball era in which he’d have thrived, the volatile genius was a crowd-pleaser&public favourite: ‘No Durani No Test’ posters went up when he was dropped against England. RIP,” stated Shashi Tharoor in a tweet.

“Deeply saddened by the news of Salim Durani Ji’s demise. He was a true icon of Indian cricket known for his immense skill and played a vital role in some of our most historic victories. My thoughts & prayers are with his family and friends during this tough time. Om Shanti,” wrote JP Nadda.

‘Master Blaster’ Sachin Tendulkar, fellow batting stalwart VVS Laxman, former India girls’s captain Mithali Raj and BCCI secretary Jay Shah paid their respects to Durani.

“India’s first Arjuna Award-winning cricketer and a man who hit sixes on public demand, Salim Durani. Om Shanti. Heartfelt Condolences to his family, friends and loved ones,” stated VVS Lakman in a tweet.

“Just heard the sad news of Salim Durani ji passing away. My heartfelt condolences to his family and friends,” stated Mithali Raj in a tweet.

“Gutted to hear about the passing away of one of Team India legends Salim Durani. Today, we have lost one of Indian cricket’s crown jewels. Condolences to his family. RIP Salim Durani ji,” stated Jay Shah in a tweet.

In a profession spanning greater than a decade, Durani not solely produced a number of lovely, but breathtaking moments on the cricket area but additionally on the large display.

(With inputs from ANI)