Abid Ali, a terrific all rounder and a thorough gentleman, says Gavaskar

Cricket veterans, including N Shivlal Yadav, Jyothi Prasad, pay glowing tributes to Abid Ali

HYDERABAD: Cricketing great Sunil Gavaskar, reacting to Syed Abid Ali’s demise, said he was a lion-hearted cricketer who did anything the team needed.

“Despite being an all-rounder who batted in the middle order, he opened the batting when needed. Took some incredible catches in the leg cordon adding an even sharper edge to our wonderful spin quartet,” Gavaskar said.

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“As a new ball bowler he has the unique record of getting a wicket with the first ball of a Test match twice if memory serves me right. He loved the tip and run and when promoted up the order in my debut Test match this tactic resulted in some overthrows which reduced the pressure considerably,” Gavaskar said.

“He was a thorough gentleman and a professional with impeccable manners. Heartfelt condolences to his family,” the former India opener said.

It was the Northern California Cricket Association where Abid Ali played A-Division and also coached the team, actually announced the sad news of Abid’s death in Tracy (California, US). “World cricket has lost a true cricketing gem and he will forever be missed by everyone who knew him,” the NCCA said in a statement.

P R Man Singh, manager of the victorious Indian team in the 1983 World Cup, said Abid was the epitome of hard work, always training come what may. “A never say die attitude, Abid Ali was a terrific all rounder. Will be remembered forever for scoring that winning run against England in the 1971 Test match. Heartfelt condolences to the family,” he said.

Former India off-spinner N Shivlal Yadav also paid glowing tributes to Abid Ali.

“I have rarely seen such a fighting cricketer who gave everything on the field. A phenomenal character who defied all odds to script a very successful career. And, one of the most popular cricketers ever,” Shivlal said.

Another former Hyderabad pacer of the 70s, Jyothi Prasad said he was a very hardworking cricketer giving first preference to fitness.

“I don’t think Hyderabad will see another all-round cricketer like him. He was a great personality too, always encouraging young talent,” he said.

HCA president A Jagan Mohan Rao, secretary R Devraj and other apex council members also expressed condolences.