AIFF Media Team

NEW DELHI: The All India Football Federation (AIFF) condoles the demise of former India international and Olympian O Chandrasekhar, who passed away earlier today (August 24, 2021).

A defender, he was part of the Indian football team that took part in the 1960 Olympic Games in Rome. He was a member of the gold medal-winning side at the 1962 Asian Games in Jakarta and the team that finished runners-up at the AFC Asian Cup in 1964.

He has a total of 25 caps to his name and also played in the Asian Cup Qualifiers in 1959, where he made his international debut, and Merdeka Cup in 1961, among other tournaments.

At the domestic level, he represented Maharashtra in the Santosh Trophy from 1959-1965, lifting the trophy in 1963. He played for Caltex Club from the period 1958-1966 and then the State Bank of India from 1967-1972.

In his condolence message, AIFF President Mr. Praful Patel averred: “It is saddening to hear that Mr. Chandrasekhar is no more. He was a key part of one of the most successful Indian teams ever and his contribution to the sport in India can never be forgotten. I share the grief."

AIFF General Secretary, Mr. Kushal Das stated: “Mr. Chandrasekhar has been an inspiring figure for people across generations and won many laurels through his career. I send my condolences to his family and pray for his soul to rest in peace."

(Image courtesy: Deshabhimani)