AMN
LAHORE: Former Pakistan cricketer and spin legend Abdul Qadir Khan passed away in Lahore on Friday, cricketer Kamran Akmal confirmed.
Akmal, whose brother is married to Qadir’s daughter, said the legendary cricketer passed away due to cardiac arrest.
The 67-year-old was born in Lahore in 1955. He was regarded one of the best leg-spinners of his time, taking 236 wickets in 67 Test matches and 132 wickets in just 104 One Day Internationals (ODIs).
He later served as chief selector for the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) as well as a match commentator.
Qadir was 63 years old and is survived by his wife, four sons and a daughter who is married to current Pakistan star batsman Umar Akmal.
Pakistan’s wicketkeeper-batsman, Kamran Akmal, Umar’s elder brother, confirmed about Qadir suffering a cardiac arrest and after being rushed to a hospital, was declared dead on arrival.
Qadir, who played in 67 Tests and 104 ODIs had a total 368 wickets in his international career, would have celebrated his 64th birthday on 15th September.
Cricket pundits and writers believe that Qadir’s biggest achievement was to keep the art of wrist spin alive during the eras of 70s and 80s when fast bowlers dominated world cricket.
