Jamia names its sports complex after Pataudi, pavilion after Sehwag

New Delhi: Jamia Millia Islamia on Saturday named its modern sports complex after legendary cricketer Nawab Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi and one of the pavilions after the hard-hitting former India opener Virender Sehwag, an alumnus of the varsity.

A university release said Pataudi’s wife and actor Sharmila Tagore unveiled a plaque naming the sports complex after her late husband, popularly known as Tiger Pataudi.

The function was attended by Sehwag, Vice Chancellor Talat Ahmad, senior faculty members, officials and students.

The complex was earlier known as Bhopal Ground as the land on which it is located was donated to the university by Pataudi’s mother Sajida Sultan, the Begum of Bhopal.

Speaking on the occasion, Sharmila said that Tiger Pataudi loved his game and his team and always wanted to achieve his goal to win a match.

Sehwag, who had graduated in 2001-02, remembered his days on campus and asked the students to take interest in sports while making a mark in their academic career.

The newly-named sports complex has indoor games facilities, a cricket ground, football field, basketball and lawn tennis courts.