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Former India all-rounder Syed Abid Ali passed away on Wednesday, March 12, at the age of 83. A highly versatile cricketer and an exceptional fielder, Abid played 29 Tests for India between 1967 and 1974.
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Abid Ali’s Impactful Career
Born in Hyderabad, Abid Ali made his Test debut in December 1967 against Australia in Adelaide, where he impressed with his medium-pace bowling, claiming 6-55 in the first innings—his career-best figures. On the same tour, he showcased his batting prowess, scoring 78 and 81 in Sydney.
Abid’s all-round abilities were so valuable that he had the rare distinction of opening both the batting and bowling for India in seven Test matches. This included two Tests against New Zealand (1968), three at home in 1969, and two during the historic 1971 tour of the West Indies.
By the time he bid farewell to Test cricket in 1974, Abid Ali had scored 1,018 runs and picked up 47 wickets.
Tributes Pour In for Abid Ali
Legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar, who played alongside Abid, paid a heartfelt tribute:
“Very sad news, he was a lion-hearted cricketer who did anything the team needed. Despite being an all-rounder who batted in the middle order, he opened the batting when needed. He took some incredible catches in the leg-side cordon, adding an even sharper edge to our wonderful spin quartet.”
“As a new ball bowler, he has the unique record of getting a wicket with the first ball of a Test match twice, if memory serves me right. He was a thorough gentleman with impeccable manners who spoke professorially. Heartfelt condolences to his family.”
Abid Ali’s ODI and First-Class Records
Abid Ali played only five ODIs, including three matches in the inaugural Men’s ODI World Cup in 1975. In his final 50-over appearance, he made 70 runs off 98 balls against New Zealand.
His first-class career spanned 212 matches, where he amassed 8,732 runs (including a best of 173*) and claimed 397 wickets.
Syed Abid Ali will be remembered for his dedication, versatility, and sportsmanship, leaving an indelible mark on Indian cricket.
