New Delhi: Former Indian footballer and also a celebrated coach, Subhash Bhowmick, passed away on Saturday after a prolonged illness. He was 72.
Bhowmick was part of the Indian side that won a bronze medal at the Asian Games in 1970 in Bangkok. He had also guided East Bengal to a glorious Asean Cup win in 2003 as a coach.
Subhash Bhowmick was suffering from kidney-related illness and also chest pain, according to reports. He had undergone a coronary surgery 23 years ago.
He made his international debut in 1970 and went on to score nine goals in 24 matches for India. Bhowmick had also scored a hattrick against the Phillippines.
Bhowmick represented Bengal from 1968 to 1975 in Santosh Trophy and won the tournament four times for the state.
Condolence messages poured in after the demise of the footballer. West Bengal's Sports Minister and former cricketer Manoj Tiwary also shared a message:
Praful Patel, president of the All India Football Federation, said in his statement: “It’s sad to hear that Bhowmick-da, one of the greatest footballers of his generation, is no more. His invaluable contribution to Indian football will always remain with us, and will never be forgotten. Indian football has only got poorer. My condolences to his family. I share the grief.”