The final year of Gaekwad's life united Indian cricket in solidarity. Diagnosed with leukemia, he traveled to the United Kingdom for specialized chemotherapy. As hospital expenses mounted, veteran cricketers raised public awareness regarding healthcare support mechanisms for retired internationals. The BCCI acted swiftly, releasing emergency medical assistance to ensure he received optimal care.
His passing marked the end of an extraordinary era for Gujarat and Indian cricket. Tributes poured in from international greats, with players praising his unwavering composure on and off the field. Prime Minister Narendra Modi recognized him as an athlete whose perseverance inspired millions, while contemporaries lauded his readiness to stand up to the most menacing fast bowlers the sport ever produced.
