What’s the story?
Former India and Mohun Bagan goalkeeper Shibaji Banerjee passed away last night after suffering a severe cardiac arrest at the age 68. Banerjee is survived by his wife and son.
Mourning the sad demise, former Bagan defender and coach Subrata Bhattacharya said, "It's shocking. I still can't believe it because I had met him just a few hours back at a programme in New Alipore. Things looked absolutely okay and now all of a sudden I hear Shibaji da is no more. I'm in a state of shock.”
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Shibaji started his football career with Howrah Union, and reached his peak during the period between 1977-85 when he represented Bagan. The green and maroon legend played for Mohun Bagan for 11 years. Banerjee carved a special place for himself in Indian football, when he managed to restrict a knuckleball taken by Brazilian football maestro, Pele, during an exhibition match against New York Cosmos on September 24, 1977.
Winning 34 trophies with the Mariners, the veteran goalkeeper had also never conceded a goal against arch-rivals East Bengal from 1977-80. Banerjee was also a successful club level cricketer having scored a few runs at CAB first division league.
Post retirement, Banerjee served as the sports officer of Calcutta Port Trust and was also a member of Bagan's technical committee. He has also been a vice-president of the CAB.
The heart of the matter
The 68-year old goalkeeper took his final breath last night at his Kolkata residence. Banerjee had earlier attended events in the day but sadly succumbed to a severe cardiac arrest. The club’s flag will remain half mast as a mark of respect for the departed soul.
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Our Tribute
Shibaji was one of the most prominent goalkeepers in Indian football during his time. His sad demise is a big loss to the entire sports and football fraternity of Bengal and India. We here at Sportskeeda offer our condolences to the bereaved family.
