I am saddened by the loss of my dear friend Mohammed Shahid. I had been in touch with his wife Parveen over his health. The news of his death is shocking. It is a big loss for the fraternity.
With the Olympics around the corner, the news of a stalwart’s death comes as a dampener. The mood will definitely be a bit sombre in the Indian camp because Shahid was one of the finest players to have represented the country. I spoke to his wife day before yesterday and asked how he was. I was told his health was deteriorating.
I have fond memories of Shahid, with whom I shared a good bonding. Apart from playing for the country, we both worked for Railways. Our association dates back to 1979 when we went to play a four-nation tournament in Malaysia. He did well and it was good exposure for him before the Moscow Olympics.
He played under me in Moscow and gave a good account of himself. From that season, he went from strength to strength and was the automatic choice for India till 1988. He was an excellent player with remarkable dribbling skills and ball control. He was agile and known for his mobility. He never feared the opposition and thus, never came under pressure. He was also part of the team that won silver in the Delhi Asiad in 1982, and bronze in Seoul in 1986. I think he was one of the few Indian sportsmen to be honoured by the Government of India at the right time. I think he got Arjuna in 1981 and Padma Shri in 1986.
Despite getting awards and adulation, he continued to be a hard worker, who was sincere and dedicated to his profession. He was full of compassion and cared for others. Even when he led the country, he was the same. He had time for everyone. In short, a simple and a wonderful human being.
I would like to mention something that many may not know. Shahid’s best performance was in Los Angles in 1984 against Australia. Although we lost the match, he was brilliant. Ric Charlesworth sensed that Shahid was a threat and marked him. This is one of the finest tribute my friend got.
I pray to God to give strength to his wife and children to bear this irreparable loss.
(Author was captain of the 1980 Olympic gold-winning team. He spoke to Ashok Venugopal)