NEW DELHI: Former Pakistan Test captain and renowned batsman of his era, Saeed Ahmed, breathed his last at the age of 86, after leading a quiet life away from cricket since his retirement.
Ahmed's illustrious career spanned 41 Test matches, during which he amassed 2,991 runs, including five centuries and 16 half-centuries. Additionally, he contributed with 22 wickets through his off-spin bowling.
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Making his Test debut against the West Indies in the historic drawn Bridgetown Test of 1958 at the age of 20, Ahmed showcased his talent until his final Test appearance against Australia in Melbourne during the 1972-73 tour.
However, his cricketing journey ended on a sour note during that tour, marred by controversy surrounding an alleged back injury. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) accused Ahmed of feigning injury to avoid facing Australian pacer Dennis Lillee on a challenging pitch in Sydney, leading to his expulsion from the tour on disciplinary grounds.
Despite the unfortunate end to his career, Ahmed was celebrated for his elegance on the field, particularly his graceful drives down the ground and ability to score big runs.
Notably, in his debut Test against the West Indies, Ahmed partnered with Hanif Muhammad in a 150-plus run stand, with Muhammad crafting a historic 337 in the second innings, contributing significantly to Pakistan's draw.
Ahmed also served as Pakistan's sixth Test captain during England's tour of Pakistan in 1969, leading the side in three drawn Tests.
PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi expressed condolences on behalf of the cricketing fraternity, praising Ahmed's contributions to Pakistani cricket. "He served Pakistan with all his heart, and the PCB honors his record and services for the Test team," Naqvi stated.
Saeed Ahmed's legacy extends beyond his cricketing prowess, as his half-brother, Younus Ahmed, also represented Pakistan in four Tests, further enriching the family's cricketing lineage.
(With inputs from PTI)
