Indian cricket icons paid tribute to former captain Ajit Wadekar – who led the country to their first series win in England and the West Indies – following his death at the age of 77.

“He will always be remembered as the ‘renaissance man’ of Indian cricket,” BCCI chief executive Rahul Johri said after it was announced that Wadekar passed away in a Mumbai hospital following prolonged illness.

Wadekar scored 2,113 runs in 37 Test matches, including one century.

Wadekar was also first captain of India’s ODI and he later on became coach, manager and chairman of Indian selectors.

Legends like Sachin Tendulkar, Mohammed Azharuddin and Anil Kumble paid tribute to Wadekar’s influence on Indian cricket.

“He was someone who was instrumental in bringing out the best in us during the 90s. We’ll always be grateful for his advice and guidance,” said Tendulkar.

Azharuddin excelled as India’s captain from 1993 to 1996 under Wadekar’s guidance.

Azharuddin said that Wadekar had been “iconic” and a “father figure for me …. May his soul rest in peace.”

Kumble, who made his comeback to the Indian team in a 1992-93 tour of South Africa, said that Wadekar “was more than a coach to the entire team – a father figure and a shrewd tactician”. “Thank you Sir for the confidence shown in my ability!” Kumble added.

Virat Kohli hailed Wadekar as a “legendary”, tweeting: “India and its millions will always remember you fondly.”