Former Indian Cricketer Syed Abid Ali Passes Away at 83
Syed Abid Ali, a former Indian all-rounder who played 29 Test matches for India between December 1967 and December 1974, passed away at the age of 83 in Tracy, California.
The news was confirmed by his relative, Reza Khan of the North America Cricket League (NACL), through a social media post on Wednesday.
Abid Ali’s cricket journey began on the maidans of Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh, and he later became a key player for the Indian cricket team in the late 1960s and early 1970s.
Cricket Career and Achievements
Abid Ali made his Test debut against Australia on December 23, 1967, and played his last Test match against the West Indies on December 15, 1974.
Over his 29 Test appearances, he scored 1,018 runs at an average of 20.36, including six half-centuries with a highest score of 81. As a medium-pace bowler, he took 47 wickets at an average of 42.12, with his best bowling figures being 6/55.
In the One-Day International (ODI) format, Abid Ali represented India in five matches between 1974 and 1975 — which were also India’s first-ever ODIs. He scored 93 runs, with a top score of 70, and took seven wickets at an average of 26.71.
Abid Ali was also a stalwart in First-Class cricket, primarily playing for Hyderabad in the Ranji Trophy.
Across 212 First-Class matches, he scored 8,732 runs at an average of 34.31, including 13 centuries and 31 fifties, with a highest score of 173 not out.
He also took 397 wickets at an average of 28.55, including 14 five-wicket hauls. In 12 List A matches, he scored 169 runs and took 19 wickets.
Historic Moment at The Oval
One of the most memorable moments of Abid Ali’s career came in 1971 when he hit the winning runs for India at The Oval, securing India’s first-ever Test series victory in England.
The winning shot was described as a “square cut that never reached the boundary as it was engulfed by jubilant supporters charging onto the ground,” as reported by ESPNcricinfo.
Versatility and Fitness
Abid Ali’s adaptability made him an asset to the Indian team. He batted in 21 of his 53 Test innings as an opener and maintained a batting average of 20.36. His fitness and athleticism were widely recognized.
His ESPNcricinfo profile noted, “Abid Ali had the feet of a sprinter, the energy of a marathon runner and the will of a decathlete.”
His sharp fielding and quick running between the wickets stood out, even at a time when fitness was not a top priority in cricket.
Former ESPNcricinfo columnist V Ramnarayan recalled Abid Ali’s dedication to training and fitness, describing his intense regimen as “the subject of anecdotes, wildly exaggerated and embellished, but perfect entertainment after a long day at the ground.”
Challenges and Controversies
Abid Ali’s career was not without controversy. He was once no-balled for throwing in a Test match against New Zealand in Christchurch.
This action was reportedly in protest against New Zealand’s Gary Bartlett, whose bowling action the Indian team believed was suspect.
Despite his skill, Abid Ali’s international career was limited due to the dominance of India’s famous spin quartet during his era.
Post-Retirement and Coaching Career
After retiring from professional cricket, Abid Ali moved to the United States and settled in California. He was instrumental in promoting cricket in Northern California.
Reza Khan acknowledged his contributions, stating, “The North America Cricket League (NACL) and the growth of cricket in the Bay Area owe a debt of gratitude to his tireless efforts and contributions to the Northern California Cricket Association (NCCA), a testament to his enduring impact.”
Abid Ali also had coaching stints with Andhra Pradesh in the Ranji Trophy and later worked with the UAE and Maldives national teams.
Tributes and Condolences
Following his death, tributes poured in from the cricketing community. Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Roger Binny stated, “Shri Syed Abid Ali was a true allrounder, a cricketer who embodied the spirit of the game. His contributions to India’s historic victories in the 1970s will always be remembered. His dedication and versatility made him stand out. My deepest condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time.”
Reza Khan’s social media tribute reflected the admiration and respect Abid Ali earned throughout his life: “It is with profound reverence and a heart full of admiration that I share with you the passing of Uncle Syed Abid Ali, a cricketing legend from India whose remarkable legacy continues to inspire us to strive for excellence.”
Legacy
Abid Ali’s contributions to Indian cricket and his impact on cricket in the United States have left an enduring legacy.
His ability to balance batting, bowling, and fielding at a high level made him one of the most versatile cricketers of his time. His dedication to fitness and the game has inspired future generations of cricketers.
