Former Indian Opener, UP Min Chetan Chauhan Passes Away At 73; CM Adityanath Offers Condolences

Chetan Chauhan played 40 tests and 7 ODIs for India and had also served the Delhi and Districts Cricket Association in various capacities.

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Former Indian Test opener Chetan Chauhan, who had been put on ventilator support on Friday night after his health condition became critical, passed away on Sunday after suffering from multiple organ failure.

 The 73-year-old had recovered well after testing positive for Covid-19 in July but his condition deteriorated after he developed blood pressure and kidney problems and hence needed to be put on ventilator.

His health worsened after he developed multi-organ failure and remained on ventilator support at Medanta hospital in Gurugram. Chauhan was admitted to Sanjay Gandhi PGI hospital in Lucknow, before being shifted to Gurugram's Medanta hospital.

"Early morning today, Chetan ji had a kidney failure and subsequently, had multi-organ failure. He is currently on life support. We are all praying that he wins this battle," a senior DDCA official had told news agency PTI on Saturday.

Chauhan served as a minister in Uttar Pradesh government. The former Lok Sabha MP was UP Minister for Sainik Welfare, Home Guards, Prantiya Rakshak Dal (PRD), and Civil Security.

UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath condoled the demise of Chauhan. "Cheif Miister Yogi Adityanath express deep sorrow over the passing away of Uttar Pradesh Minister and former cricketer Chetan Chauhan," said UP Chief Minister's Office (CMO).

The former India opener, who made his debut for the Indian cricket team in 1969, played 40 Tests between 1969 and 1978 for India and formed one of the most successful opening partnerships with Sunil Gavaskar. The duo scored over 3000 runs together.

Chauhan played 40 tests and 7 ODI for India and had also served the Delhi and Districts Cricket Association in various capacities -- president of the DDCA for 13 years, vice-president, secretary and chief selector -- while also being an MP before his latest stint as a minister in UP government.