LUCKNOW, May 27 -- People call him the architect of Prayagraj's (then Allahabad) cricket history for leading the city's legacy for more than 50 years now, and RP Bhatnagar is determined to prove them right, for even at the age of 83, he is going great guns and showing no signs of slowing down. A true sportsman at heart, Bhatnagar boasts of a sharp memory and his recollections of the early days of Allahabad cricket are both valuable and captivating, offering a glimpse into an era that laid the foundation for future generations. Lovingly called Bhaiya Ji, Bhatnagar's cricketing journey began as the captain of the KP Inter College team during the 1959-60 session, followed by leading the CMP Degree College team in 1960-61. He went on to represent the Allahabad University Cricket Team in 1962 and 63, showcasing his talent and leadership skills at the collegiate level. Bhatnagar's passion for the sport led him to join the accountant general Uttar Pradesh) in 1963, where he was not only part of the cricket team but also captained it. In 1964-65, he was appointed captain of the Allahabad district team and was also selected to represent the Uttar Pradesh Ranji Trophy Team in the same season. His association with cricket continued beyond his playing days, as he served as a selector for the Uttar Pradesh Ranji Trophy for five years till 2003. Bhatnagar's contribution to cricket extends significantly into organising and administrating the sport. As the general secretary, he organised the prestigious All India Lal Bahadur Shastri Cricket Tournament from 1977 to 1995 at Madan Mohan Malviya Stadium, Allahabad, a tournament that attracted many of India's prominent Test players. He also organised the memorable William Ghosh Benefit Cricket Match in 1984, where Pakistan's then-captain Imran Khan played, and Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi, the Nawab of Pataudi, officiated as an umpire alongside Test umpire Swarup Kishan, before handing over to All India panel umpire TD Mukherji. "Still the cricket history of Allahabad runs clearly before me. I enjoy cricket," Bhatnagar said on Monday. "I would love to serve the game of cricket till my last breath," he added. Continuing his work as a dedicated organiser, he managed the All India Justice SN Dwivedi Cricket Tournament annually from 2006-07 to 2019-20, hosting leading teams from across the country. His deep involvement with the Allahabad Cricket Association began in 1970-71 when he was elected as a member of the executive committee from the playing units. "I never left cricket, and it runs in my veins. In fact, I sleep, dream and eat cricket. Have got good support from all cricketers, including youngsters to run the show here and that's the reason why Allahabad has still been one of the main feeding centres of cricketers to state and national teams," Bhatnagar said. Today, RP Bhatnagar serves as the director of the Allahabad Cricket Association, where he continues to contribute selflessly to the game. His life is a shining example of how passion, dedication, and vision can build a lasting legacy. His efforts have not only nurtured countless cricketers but have also elevated Allahabad's status on the cricketing map of India. "We will soon be coming up with a big event here in Allahabad and I am sure that event will unleash a new chapter in Allahabad's cricket history," said Bhatnagar....