Former India All-Rounder Syed Abid Ali passes away

Former Indian cricketer Syed Abid Ali, known for his all-round abilities and outstanding fielding, passed away on March 12 at the age of 83.

Born in Hyderabad, Abid Ali played 29 Tests for India between 1967 and 1974, amassing 1,018 runs and taking 47 wickets. He made an impressive debut in Adelaide, registering career-best figures of 6/55. A reliable middle-order batter, he also opened the innings when required and had the rare distinction of opening both batting and bowling in seven Tests.

Reflecting on Abid Ali’s contributions, legendary batter Sunil Gavaskar described him as a “lion-hearted cricketer” who was always ready to serve the team’s needs. “As a new ball bowler, he had the rare record of taking a wicket with the first ball of a Test match twice,” Gavaskar recalled.

Abid Ali also featured in India’s maiden ODI World Cup campaign in 1975, where he played three matches. In his final 50-over appearance, he scored a gritty 70 against New Zealand. His first-class career spanned 212 matches, in which he scored 8,732 runs and claimed 397 wickets.

A gentleman of the game with impeccable manners, Abid Ali’s legacy as a versatile and selfless cricketer will be fondly remembered. Heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones.