Sunil Gavaskar conferred with Honorary Doctorate by Karnataka varsity

Karnataka bestowed with the honour. Five others also received similar degrees from chief guest Mohan Bhagwat in the university campus near Gulbarga on Wednesday evening. In its citation, the university said, "As one of the most admired and adored international cricket players in the history of the game, your immaculate technique, singled-pointed concentration, and most importantly, your daring nerve defined your batting legacy.

Widely acclaimed for your impeccable technique against fast bowling, you were indeed the most valuable batsman of the Indian cricket team and equally the most prized wicket for the opposition. "While speaking to millions of cricket lovers globally from the commentary box, you continue to enlighten every listener with your profound knowledge and intricacies of the game. Your outstanding and versatile contributions coupled with your humble demeanour on and off the field will serve as a benchmark to every budding cricketer who wishes to make a mark in the global arena of sports.

As a fitting tribute to your colossal contributions in the field of sports and fitness management, the Sri Sathya Sai University for Human Excellence wishes to confer upon you this Honorary Doctorate." Gavaskar played 125 Tests and 108 ODIs in an international career of 16 years from 1971. He was also a member of the 1983 World Cup winning team. Since retirement in 1987, he has been a powerful voice of the game through commentary and columns.

He has also held many administrative positions, in both BCCI and ICC. Gavaskar, a recipient of the Arjuna and Padma Bhushan awards, turned 73 on July 10. He flew to Gulbarga from London and then rushed back to Mumbai immediately to attend to his ailing mother.