Former Indian middle-order batsman Yashpal Sharma died at the age of 66 on Tuesday after suffering a cardiac arrest, ANI reported. He was part of India’s 1983 World Cup-winning team.

According to reports, Yashpal collapsed at his residence in New Delhi after returning from his morning walk here.

In his career spanning late 70’s and the 80’s, the 66-year-old cricketer from Punjab scored 1606 runs with two tons (top score of 140) and nine 50s. In the 37 Test matches he played for India after debuting in 1979 against England, Sharma maintained an average of over 33. He was also a national selector during early part of 2000.

Sharma is survived by his wife, two daughters and a son.

Also Read: Tributes pour in for cricketer Yashpal Sharma following his death at 66

Speaking to PTI, Former India captain Dilip Vengsarkar expressed shock at his teammate’s demise. 

“It is unbelievable. He was the fittest among all of us. I had asked him that day when we met how about his routine. He was a vegetarian, teetotaller, used to have soup for his dinner and very particular about his morning walks. I am just shocked,” Vengsarkar told PTI.

“As a player, he was a proper team man and a fighter. I fondly remember the 1979 Test against Pakistan in Delhi. We both had a partnership which helped us save the game. I knew him since my university days. Still can’t believe it,” he added.

Several cricketers and politicians took to Twitter to offer their condolences. 

“So sorry to hear about Yashpal Sharma Paaji ‘s passing away, one of the heroes of our 1983 WC win. Heartfelt condolences. Om Shanti,” Virendra Sehwag tweeted.

“Oh dear, so sorry to hear of the death of Yashpal Sharma who played such a big part in one of Indian cricket’s most glorious hours World Cup 1982. Too early to go. Condolences to his family,” Harsha Bhogle tweeted.