Indian Olympic Association secretary general Randhir Singh on Friday paid tribute to late former cricket captain Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi, saying he would always be remembered for leading the Indian team to its first overseas series win.
"He (Pataudi) was an outstanding sportsman and a great human being. He would forever be remembered for leading India to their maiden Test series triumph abroad. He will be deeply missed among the Indian sports fraternity," Randhir said in his condolence message.
Aged 70, Pataudi breathed his last on Thursday after battling a lung infection for the past few weeks.
Pataudi created history in 1967 when he guided India to their first overseas Test series triumph, a 3-1 win over New Zealand.
"I would like to extend my heartfelt condolence on this sad occasion. He will always remain in our thoughts and prayers," said Randhir, who is also the secretary general of Olympic Council of Asia.
"May the Almighty God grant peace to the departed soul and courage to the bereaved family to bear this loss with fortitude," he added.