Former Indian All-Rounder Syed Abid Ali Passes Away at 83

The cricketing world mourns the loss of Syed Abid Ali, a former Indian all-rounder, who passed away at the age of 83 in the United States. Known for his remarkable agility, all-round performances, and key contributions to Indian cricket, Abid Ali played a vital role in shaping many memorable moments in the sport’s history.

Early Life and Cricketing Journey

Born in Hyderabad, Abid Ali made a name for himself as a dependable all-rounder in Indian cricket. He was known for his ability to swing the ball, bat sensibly in the lower order, and was one of the most agile fielders of his time.

Test Debut and Memorable Performances

Abid Ali made his Test debut against Australia in Brisbane, where he immediately showcased his bowling prowess. In his first-ever Test match, he claimed six wickets for 55 runs, a remarkable feat that announced his arrival on the international stage.

In the same Australia series, he displayed his batting skills at Sydney, scoring two gritty half-centuries (78 and 81), proving his worth as a complete all-rounder. His ability to contribute in both departments made him an invaluable asset to the Indian team.

Key Contribution to India’s Historic Win Against England (1971)

One of Abid Ali’s most celebrated moments came in India’s historic victory at the Oval against England in 1971. He had the honor of scoring the winning runs, cementing his place in cricketing history as a key figure in India’s rise on the global stage.

First-Class Cricket and Coaching Career

Beyond his international career, Abid Ali played 22 years of first-class cricket for Hyderabad and South Zone. Post-retirement, he dedicated himself to coaching, mentoring teams across different countries.

Coaching Stints

• Andhra Pradesh Ranji Team – Abid Ali helped develop Andhra Pradesh’s cricket team, guiding them from struggles to the Elite division.
• UAE Cricket Team – In 2001, he took up an offer to coach the UAE, believing in his philosophy of “taking a side at the bottom right to the top.”
• Maldives Cricket Team – He also played a crucial role in coaching Maldives, helping build their cricketing infrastructure.

The 1996 Incident: A Wrongful Death Report

In 1996, Abid Ali underwent bypass surgery, leading to a mix-up in media reports. False news spread about his passing, and condolences poured in from former teammates and fans. This confusion was so widespread that a journalist even contacted Abid Ali directly to confirm if he was alive!

Legacy and Impact

Abid Ali will be remembered as a dedicated cricketer who contributed immensely to Indian cricket and global cricket development. His efforts in mentoring young cricketers and building strong teams worldwide have left a lasting impact on the game.

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