Former India cricketer V.B. Chandrasekhar passes away, suicide suspected

Chandrasekhar, popularly called VB, is survived by wife and two daughters.

Former Indian and Tamil Nadu cricketer V.B. Chandrasekhar at the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium in Hyderabad. (File Photo)

Former India and Tamil Nadu opener V.B. Chandrasekhar passed away in Chennai on Thursday. He was 57. Police said the body of the former cricketer was recovered from his residence. They suspect it to be a case of suicide.

Chandrasekhar, popularly called VB, is survived by wife and two daughters.

A hard-hitting opener, he represented India in seven ODIs, with an innings of 53 being his highest score. In 81 First Class matches, Chandrasekhar notched up 4999 runs at an average of 43.09 with 10 centuries.

After his eventful cricketing career, where he was a part of the last Tamil Nadu team to triumph in the Ranji Trophy in 1988 — he later led the State side and then briefly played for Goa — VB focussed on coaching and commentary.

VB coached the Tamil Nadu Ranji team and was continually involved with the game.

(Assistance for overcoming suicidal thoughts is available on the State’s health helpline 104 and Sneha’s suicide prevention helpline 044-24640050)