Mohammed Shahid, one of the most well-known names in the sport of hockey, died in a hospital in Gurgaon on Wednesday. The former star died at the age of 56 due to severe liver and kidney problems. He is survived by his wife, and two children.
Shahid was initially taken to SSL Hospital at Banaras Hindu University, but his condition did not improve. Hence, he was admitted to Medanta Mendcity hospital, where he was diagnosed with chronic liver disease.
A number of present and former hockey players including the then teammate, Zafar Iqbal, attended paid a visit in the past few weeks as well.
"I am deeply saddened, I have lost one of my closest comrades. We played together for seven years. His contributions to the game are immeasurable," TOI quoted Zaffar as saying.
India captain PR Sreejesh was shocked after hearing of the sad news, and said, "I am speechless. When we visited him, the situation was very critical. It's a great loss for Indian hokey. Shahid was a living legend who brought hockey to a different level."
Though Shahid's death is painful, he has left every hockey fan with some wonderful memories to cherish forever. The player was known for his dribbling skills, which would bamboozle his opponents. Shahid also played an important role in helping India win gold in the 1980 Moscow Olympics, silver in Delhi Asiad (1982) and bronze in Seoul Asiad (1986).
Such was his contribution to India hockey that the player was also conferred with the Arjuna Award in 1981 and the Padma Shri in 1986.
