Photo shows former Indian cricketer S. Abid Ali in a fielding practice session at the Lal Bahadur Stadium, Hyderabad on October 12, 1976. Ali, who was known for his versatility and sharp fielding skills, died on Wednesday (March 12, 2024) after a prolonged illness
| Photo Credit: THE HINDU ARCHIVES
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Thursday (March 13, 2025) condoled the death of former India all-rounder Syed Abid Ali, saying he “embodied the spirit of the game” and his contribution to Indian cricket will always be remembered.
Ali, who was known for his versatility and sharp fielding skills, died on Wednesday (March 12, 2024) after a prolonged illness. He was 83.
He was part of a golden generation of Hyderabad cricketers that included MAK Pataudi, ML Jaisimha, and Abbas Ali Baig.
Abid Ali moved to the United States after he retired, where he breathed his last
Abid Ali of Hyderabad drives Vijayakumar of Karnataka being watched by Syed Kirmani, wicket-keeper of Karnataka in the first innings during the Ranji Trophy Cricket Championship South Zone League match between Karnataka and Hyderabad at Bangalore on December 02, 1973.
| Photo Credit:
THE HINDU ARCHIVES
He was a member of the Indian team led by Ajit Wadekar that won the historic Test match at The Oval in 1971, after bowling out England for only 101 in the second innings. The four-wicket win, coupled with the other two Tests (Lord’s and Old Trafford) ending in a draw, saw India register its first-ever series win in England.
“Shri Syed Abid Ali was a true all-rounder, a cricketer who embodied the spirit of the game. His contributions to India’s historic victories in the 1970s will always be remembered,” said BCCI president Roger Binny in a statement.
“His dedication and versatility made him stand out. My deepest condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time.”
Ali represented India in 29 Tests and 5 ODIs, leaving a mark with his all-round capabilities.
His contributions were instrumental in India’s historic Test series victories in England and the West Indies in 1971, where his fielding, bowling, and batting proved invaluable.
“Shri Syed Abid Ali’s all-round skills and his contribution to Indian cricket are quite valued. He was a true gentleman of the game. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones,” BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia stated.
Ali made his Test debut in December 1967 against Australia in Adelaide, marking the occasion with a sensational 6/55 in the first innings — his career-best bowling figures.
His batting prowess was on display later in the same series when he scored 78 and 81 in the Sydney Test, proving his all-round capabilities.
Between 1967 and 1974, he played 29 Tests for India, tallying 1,018 runs and taking 47 wickets.
Published – March 13, 2025 12:11 pm IST
