Indian cricketer Syed Abid Ali passed away at 83

Syed Abid Ali, a celebrated all-rounder in Indian cricket, recently passed away at the age of 83 in the United States. He was admired by many young fans in the 1970s for his impressive skills and unique style. Abid Ali was a rare talent, excelling as a bowler, batsman, and wicketkeeper. In an era dominated by spin bowlers, Ali brought pace to the Indian cricket team. He was noted for his muscular build and commitment to fitness, a rarity among cricketers at that time. His performance in matches against Kerala was particularly memorable. In 1968, he scored an unbeaten 173, his career best, and took five wickets in a subsequent match in 1969. During his matches, Ali faced notable challenges, including surprising performances from Kerala’s medium pacer, V Manikanta Kurup. Kurup took key wickets, including that of the famous Indian captain, MAK Pataudi. Both players showcased their talents in a competitive cricketing environment. Although Abid Ali's bowling speed was not as fast as some of his contemporaries, he was effective with his accuracy and ability to swing the ball. He made a significant impact in his 29 Test matches, taking 47 wickets and scoring over 1,000 runs. Throughout his domestic career, he was even more successful, achieving nearly 400 wickets and scoring more than 8,700 runs. Ali’s contributions to cricket inspired many players who followed him, highlighting the possibility of fast bowling in Indian cricket. Even though his records may not match those of other Indian legends, his influence on the sport remains significant. He leaves behind a legacy recognized by fans and players alike.