Lahore: Former Pakistan Test cricket captain and celebrated all-rounder Saeed Ahmed has passed away in Lahore at the age of 86.
Saeed Ahmed, whose illustrious career spanned 15 years, from 1958 to 1973, left an indelible mark on Pakistani cricket history with his remarkable performances on the field. Having represented Pakistan in 41 Test matches, Saeed Ahmed showcased his batting prowess by amassing 2991 runs, which included 5 centuries and 16 half-centuries at an amazing 40.41 average. Notably, three of his centuries were scored against arch-rivals India. In addition to his batting skills, Saeed also contributed with the ball, claiming 22 Test wickets as a capable offspinner.
Born in Jalandhar in 1937, then part of British India and now in Indian Punjab, Saeed made his debut for Pakistan at the age of 20 against the West Indies in a memorable drawn Test match in Bridgetown. His elegance and powerful stroke play, particularly his exquisite drives, quickly earned him recognition as a formidable cricketer at the international level.
Saeed’s career reached its pinnacle when he captained Pakistan for three drawn Test matches against England in 1969, briefly taking the reins from Hanif Mohammad. However, his tenure ended on a controversial note during Pakistan’s 1972 tour of Australia when a disagreement with Dennis Lillee led to his exclusion from the team. Subsequently, a disciplinary issue led to his permanent exclusion from international cricket.
“Saeed made his Test debut against West Indies during the Bridgetown Test in 1958 and played his last Test for Pakistan in Melbourne during the 1972/73 tour. He was Pakistan’s sixth Test captain and replaced Hanif Mohammad as skipper of the side during England’s tour of Pakistan in 1969. He only led Pakistan for three Tests.”, the PCB said in a press release.
Expressing condolences, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi hailed Saeed Ahmed’s contributions to Pakistani cricket, acknowledging his dedicated service to the national team.
“The PCB is saddened over the demise of one of our former Test captains and expresses deep condolences to the family of Saeed Ahmed. He served Pakistan with all his heart and the PCB honors his record and services for the Test team,” Naqvi said.
After he retired from cricket, Saeed chose to remain distant from the sport, leading a reclusive life in Lahore in his later years, marked by declining health and occasional hospital visits.
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