Table of Contents
Introduction
Cricket has seen many legends, some of whom remained famous for generations, while others slowly disappeared from the limelight despite their remarkable contributions. One such unsung hero is Syed Abid Ali, the former Indian all-rounder who played a key role in shaping India’s early cricketing success.
On March 12, 2024, at the age of 83, Abid Ali breathed his last in California, USA. His demise marks the end of an era, yet his contribution to Indian cricket will never be forgotten. From a dependable bowler and a fine batsman to a revolutionary fielder, Abid Ali’s career was filled with many moments that defined India’s cricketing journey in the 1960s and 1970s.
Let’s take a closer look at the incredible journey of a man who, despite his talent, never got the recognition he truly deserved.
Early life and rise to stardom
Born in Hyderabad in 1941, Abid Ali’s cricketing journey began on the dusty fields of his hometown. His passion for the game was evident from an early age, and he soon made a name for himself in domestic cricket.
Unlike many cricketers of his era, Abid Ali was known for his dedication to fitness and agility, making him one of the finest fielders of his time. His all-round skills caught the attention of the selectors, and soon he found himself wearing the Indian jersey.
Test debut and early success
Abid Ali made his Test debut against Australia in Adelaide in 1967. He made an immediate impact, taking six wickets for 55 runs – a performance that put him on the map as a promising all-rounder.
Over the next few years, he became a vital part of the Indian team, contributing with both the ball and the bat.
The historic 1971 England tour
One of Abid Ali’s most significant moments was India’s 1971 tour of England – a tour in which India created history by winning their first Test series on English soil.
In the final Test at the Oval, needing just a few runs to win, it was Abid Ali who scored the winning runs and cemented his place in Indian cricket folklore.
A dependable all-rounder
Although he was not a fast bowler in the traditional sense, Abid Ali’s medium-pace bowling was quite effective. His ability to move the ball and take crucial wickets made him a valuable asset to the team.
He was equally dependable with the bat. He scored 1,018 runs in Test cricket, including six half-centuries. The two half-centuries he scored in Sydney in 1967-68 are among his most notable achievements.
India’s first ODI appearance
Abid Ali also has the distinction of playing in India’s first One Day International (ODI) match in 1974. Although ODIs were in their infancy at the time, he made valuable contributions in the five matches he played.
A revolutionary fielder
In an era when fielding was not a priority in Indian cricket, Abid Ali was considered a game-changer. His sharp reflexes and incredible athleticism made him a great fielder, setting high standards for future generations.
Challenges and career hurdles
Despite his talent, Abid Ali’s international career also had its share of struggles. The presence of India’s legendary spin quartet (Bedi, Prasanna, Chandrasekhar and Venkataraghavan) limited his opportunities, as India often relied on spin-friendly strategies.
Also, he was involved in a controversial no-ball incident against New Zealand, where he was suspected of an illegal bowling action. However, he bounced back and continued to play with dignity.
A legend in domestic cricket
Although his international career was relatively short, Abid Ali remained a dominant force in first-class cricket. He played 212 matches, scoring 8,732 runs and taking 397 wickets, proving his worth as a true all-rounder.
Life after retirement
Even after retiring from professional cricket, Abid Ali remained deeply involved with the game. He took up coaching roles, mentoring young cricketers in India and abroad.
His expertise led him to work with the UAE and Maldives cricket teams, where he helped develop emerging talent.
A lasting legacy
Although Abid Ali has not achieved the same fame as some of his peers, his impact on Indian cricket is undeniable. His contributions paved the way for future generations of all-rounders, proving that cricket is about patience and dedication as much as talent.
Tributes paid
Following his demise, tributes poured in from the cricketing fraternity. The BCCI as well as former cricketers and fans acknowledged his immense contributions. BCCI president Roger Binny called him one of the finest all-rounders of his era and emphasised his role in India’s victory in England in 1971.
Conclusion
The story of Abid Ali is one of perseverance, skill and dedication. Although he may not have been in the spotlight like some of his contemporaries, his contribution to Indian cricket is invaluable and he will always be remembered.
While the cricket world mourns his departure, his legacy as a pioneering all-rounder and an inspirational mentor will live on forever.
