Kingston (Jamaica), Sep 22 (IANS): West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) president Dave Cameron has described late Indian cricket board chief Jagmohan Dalmiya as "a true friend of West Indies cricket" who made a huge contribution to developing the game globally.

Dalmiya died in Kolkata on Sunday night after being admitted to a hospital last Thursday with chest pain. The 75-year-old subsequently suffered massive gastrointestinal bleeding, reports CMC.

"We have lost a friend, a gentleman and one of cricket's favourite sons. Jagmohan Dalmiya was a true friend of West Indies cricket and we always enjoyed his company and all that he brought to the game. He was not just a friend of West Indies cricket, but world cricket. He loved the game and gave his all for the good of the sport," said Cameron.

Dalmiya first became Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president in 2001 and was elected for the second time last March when he replaced current International Cricket Council (ICC) chairman N. Srinivasan.

He acted as interim BCCI president in 2013 during the Indian Premier League (IPL) spot fixing controversy. Dalmiya also served as ICC president on being elected to the post in 1997.

Cameron said the veteran administrator had proven himself as a "visionary" and had managed to establish himself as a leader.

"Mr. Dalmiya was a visionary and had a huge impact on the game as one of the most respected and admired administrators in its history. He led world cricket with distinction and everyone respected his opinions on the game and how it should be run and managed," he said.

"We offer our deepest sympathy to his family, friends, colleagues and the entire BCCI family."