The Indian cricket fraternity is still basking in the glory of their 2025 triumph, but the mood has suddenly shifted to one of mourning with the passing of former all-rounder Syed Abid Ali at the age of 83. Renowned for his exceptional fielding skills, Ali represented the Indian cricket team in 29 Test matches. Legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has paid tribute to the late Ali, reflecting on his remarkable career and the impact he had on the sport.
Condolences Pour in for Syed Abid Ali
According to cricket news outlet Crickbaz, Sunil Gavaskar expressed his sorrow upon hearing the news, saying, “It’s devastating to hear about Abid’s passing. He had the heart of a lion, always willing to go the extra mile for the team. Whether it was batting in the middle order or opening, he was a versatile player who could adapt to any situation. His catching on the leg side was truly exceptional.” Gavaskar also reminisced about Abid Ali’s impressive record, noting that he was one of the first bowlers in the world to take a wicket on the very first ball of a Test match on two separate occasions.
Gavaskar recalled his own debut Test match, where Abid Ali was given the opportunity to bat in the upper order. “He had this quirky habit of running quickly between wickets, which often caught the opposition off guard. This tactic proved to be effective, as the opposing team would frequently concede runs due to overthrows,” Gavaskar shared. He extended his condolences to Abid Ali’s family and loved ones, acknowledging the significant contribution the late cricketer made to Indian cricket.
Syed Abid Ali’s Illustrious Career
Throughout his career, Syed Abid Ali played 29 Test matches for India, claiming 47 wickets and scoring 1,018 runs, including six half-centuries. He also participated in five One-Day Internationals, taking seven wickets and scoring 93 runs. His impressive statistics are a testament to his skill and dedication to the sport. As the cricket world mourns the loss of this talented all-rounder, his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of cricketers. With his passing, Indian cricket has lost a true legend, and his memory will be cherished by fans and fellow players alike.
