File picture of former India goalkeeper SS Narayan. (Photo courtesy: AIFF Media)
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) condoles the demise of former Indian National Team goalkeeper Mr. SS ‘Babu’ Narayan, who passed away in his residence in Thane, Maharashtra, on Thursday (August 5, 2021), and is survived by his two daughters and one son.
Having made his debut against the erstwhile Yugoslavia in the 1956 Melbourne Olympics, Mr. Narayan went on to represent the Blue Tigers in nine International matches. While he represented India in two Olympics (1956 and 1960), the former goalkeeper was also a part of the India side that finished second in the 1964 AFC Asian Cup, and the 1958 Asian Games where India finished fourth.
AIFF President Mr. Praful Patel, in his condolence message, said, “It is devastating to hear that Mr. Narayan is no more. His contribution to Indian Football can never be forgotten. I share the grief.”
AIFF General Secretary Mr. Kushal Das said, “Mr. Narayan was a very talented goalkeeper who played with repute at the International and domestic levels. My condolences to his family. We pray for his soul to rest in peace.”
On the domestic level, Mr. Narayan had represented Bombay in Santosh Trophy. The former goalkeeper was also a proficient basketball player on the domestic front, having represented Maharashtra, Matunga Indian Gymkhana, and Matunga Athletic Club.
(AIFF Media)