Written by Tanisha Cardozo
In the world of cricket, where early success often defines legacy, Ambey Parwatkar’s story is a rare outlier — shaped by struggle, molded by mentors, and crowned with perseverance.
His is not a tale of overnight fame or flashy leagues. It’s the story of a man who carried his kit across 21 countries, made a mark in every corner, and kept performing long after others hung up their boots.
In an era where cricket careers are often short and commercialized, Ambey’s journey reminds us that there’s still room in the sport for grit, purpose, and loyalty to the game itself.
A Debut to Remember — at 13
Ambey first tasted competitive cricket at the age of 13, representing his school and a team called Tadmad CC, captained then by the current Education Director Shailesh Zungde. In his debut match against the Maharashtra MSFC — a corporate government team — he made an immediate impact by taking four wickets and winning the Man of the Match award in the GCA B Division. It was a bold beginning, one that hinted at a spark destined to burn far longer than most.
The Long Road to Ranji
While many cricketers peak in their 20s, Ambey’s first-class debut came at the age of 36. After 23 years of playing the sport at multiple levels and being part of squads for four different state teams, he finally got his Ranji Trophy break for Goa — at Dharmashala, against Himachal Pradesh. Goa not only won the match but also qualified for the 2008 knockouts.
“I was in the squad for 16 matches and only got to play once,” he reflects. That one game, however, was a personal triumph, symbolic of years of unwavering persistence.
Mentors Who Built the Cricketer
His growth in cricket is owed to a constellation of mentors: Chandrakant Chede laid the foundations in Goa; Mohinder Singh Bedi guided the U-17 team to a championship; and Rakesh Rawat instilled discipline in fitness and fielding. Later, in Mumbai, he trained under Late V.S. Patil and Late Vasu Paraspe (whose academy Ambey now runs in Goa). Other major influences included Ramakant Desai, Dilip Sardesai, Sandeep Patil, Praveen Amre, Zubin Barucha, and Jatin Paraspe.
Internationally, he honed his skills under Malcolm Marshall and Omar Henry in South Africa, and with Madanlal, Ali Anwar, and Mushtaq Mohammed in Dubai. He represented Yogi Group and Sharjah Club with distinction.
He was continuously supported by individuals like Sharad Pednekar, Luchi Velji, Sanjay Katkar, Late Nagraj Sir, Chetan Desai, and Dayanand Narvekar in Goa. His family, especially his father (a photographer), his brother, his wife, and his mother, were integral to his stability and focus.
Ambey credits Shivaji Maharaj as his lifelong role model, with sporting inspirations including Muhammad Ali, Andre Agassi, Steve Waugh, and Ravi Shastri. Cricketers like Mohinder Amarnath and Kapil Dev also left a deep impact.
Milestones That Matter
Across his decades-long journey, Ambey’s career has been filled with standout moments, including:
- Winning the U-17 Vijay Hazare Trophy with Goa — a tournament that changed his and his teammates’ careers.
- A spectacular 9-wicket match haul (7 in the first innings, 2 in the second) against Andhra Pradesh in the U-23 circuit.
- Receiving his Ranji debut cap from Dodda Ganesh in 2008.
- Leading Yogi Group to victory against Afghanistan Wings, with match-winning figures of 4-1-12-3.
- Becoming the most economical bowler in 50+ cricket following the 2025 Sri Lanka World Cup.
- Ranking 12th globally in the MVP list at the 2023 50+ World Cup in South Africa.
- Earning four consecutive Man of the Match awards in Sharjah’s Champions Trophy, defeating UAE’s top teams.
Cricket Without Borders
Ambey’s most unique achievement? Playing in 21 countries, starting over in each with no entitlement, no shortcuts — just performances.
Whether it was Mumbai, Dubai, South Africa, or England, he had to prove himself again and again. “I never carried my name. I carried my performances,” he says.
This recurring “restart” — across cultures, conditions, and teams — became both his biggest challenge and his greatest strength.
Cricket in the Age of Technology
Ambey is candid about the evolution of the sport. While he acknowledges the value of biomechanics and tech in cricket, he’s concerned about the erosion of the sport’s deeper spirit.
“You can learn technique. You can’t teach heart,” he says.
His Message to Young Cricketers
Ambey urges young players to look beyond fame or league contracts.
“Don’t play just for the IPL or international stardom. Learn cricket. Live cricket. Be Dedicated, Determined, and Disciplined — the 3 D’s. Master the game in all its forms. And always give more than 100%.”
A Life Beyond Cricket
Away from cricket, Ambey is a man of many interests — a traveler, drummer, beach swimmer, and someone deeply engaged with Goa’s social initiatives. He values time with his family, thrives on routine, and firmly believes in “doing things his way.”
A Legacy Still in Motion
At 50+, Ambey Parwatkar continues to compete and lead. More importantly, he continues to inspire.
In a game that often forgets late bloomers and quiet fighters, he stands tall as a reminder that there is no expiry date on passion. He’s not just a cricketer. He’s a student, a mentor, a global ambassador of the game’s enduring soul.
