In a grand ceremony at Hubli’s KSCA Stadium, the Karnataka State Cricket Association celebrated one of its finest sons by inaugurating the Sunil Joshi Pavilion on Tuesday. The event spotlighted the achievements of the ex-Indian left-arm spinner during a high-stakes Ranji Trophy final.
BCCI chief Mithun Manhas and KSCA head Venkatesh Prasad cut the ribbon in the presence of Jammu & Kashmir and Karnataka teams. The timing, amidst the title clash, amplified the significance of honoring Joshi’s journey from domestic stalwart to national hero.
Joined by his wife Ravneet, Joshi fought back tears as the crowd applauded. Prominent guest Prahlad Joshi, Karnataka’s ex-CM and current Union Minister, underscored the event’s prestige.
‘I never dreamed of this day,’ Joshi told the media. ‘Heartfelt thanks to Venkatesh Prasad and Sintoosh Menon. This is the true reward for my unwavering commitment to cricket.’
Joshi’s international stats paint a picture of reliability: 41 Test wickets across 15 matches with 352 runs, and 69 ODI wickets plus 584 runs in 69 games. Domestically, he dominated with 615 first-class wickets in 160 outings (5,129 runs) and 192 List A scalps in 163 matches (1,729 runs).
Post-retirement, his influence grew as a national selector, including during India’s triumphant 2020/21 Australia series. He later shaped IPL strategies as Punjab Kings’ spin coach until 2025.
Today, at BCCI’s Bengaluru Centre of Excellence, Joshi’s coaching prowess shone as India’s U-19 side won the World Cup this month. The pavilion immortalizes a career defined by spin mastery and selfless service.