BCCI Mourns Death of Dr Vece Paes, Former Anti-Doping Consultant and Olympic Hockey Bronze Medalist

The BCCI today expressed deep sorrow over the demise of Dr Vece Paes, who had served the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) as an Anti-Doping and Age Verification Consultant from October 2010 to March 2018.

Dr Paes passed away on August 16. In a condolence message, BCCI hailed Dr Paes contributions in introducing structured educational programmes on anti-doping, enhancing awareness and compliance among players and support staff, besides strengthening age-verification and athlete welfare measures.

"Dr Paes’s association with the BCCI reflected his belief in safeguarding the spirit of sport. His meticulous work in anti-doping, including the introduction of educational initiatives, and his efforts in age verification have benefitted generations of cricketers. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Leander Paes, his family and loved ones," BCCI Honorary Secretary Devajit Saikia said in a condolence message.

Dr Paes, father of tennis legend Leander Paes, was a member of India’s bronze medal-winning men’s hockey team at the 1972 Munich Olympics and also represented the country in the 1971 Hockey World Cup. At end of his playing career, he distinguished himself as a leading sports medicine expert, serving athletes across disciplines with integrity and care.

The Board said Dr Paes’ passion for clean sport had left a lasting impact on Indian cricket’s support systems.

The BCCI joined the larger sporting community in mourning his loss and celebrating his lifelong commitment to excellence and service to sport.