KARACHI: Zaheer Abbas has been formally inducted into the Pakistan Cricket Board’s Hall of Fame, here on Saturday. He was a legendary batting great and former captain.
In the lunch break of the second Test between Pakistan and Australia at the National Stadium, Zaheer, one of the most stylish and elegant batters to ever play the game, was formally inducted into the PCB Hall of Fame. He received his honoring cap and plaque from the Board official Faisal Hasnain
Zaheer, the only Asian batsman to score 100 first-class centuries, was conferred with honor for his extraordinary role in Pakistan’s cricket. As he concluded his outstanding 459-match career with 108 centuries and 158 half-centuries; amassing 34,843 runs at an average of 51.5.
Zaheer Abbas inducted into the PCB Hall of Fame 🌟 pic.twitter.com/Ycr4KgSU2W
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) March 12, 2022
Zaheer, who is also known as ‘Asian Bradman’, scored 5,062 runs in 78 Tests at an average of 44.79 with 12 centuries. In ODIs however, he struck seven centuries in 62 matches; scoring 2,572 runs at an average of 47.62.
In a PCB released statement, Zaheer said he is humbled to be recognized in a respectful and honourable manner, also said it has been a privilege to represent Pakistan.
“I feel humbled to have been recognised in such a respectful and honourable manner by my parent organisation at my home ground, during play of my favourite format of the game and in front of passionate cricket fans, who have also played an integral part throughout my cricketing career,” the statement read.
“It has been a privilege to have represented Pakistan for nearly two decades and contribute [to] the national side’s growth in terms of stature and reputation. It was a delight to play with and against some of the all-time greats in an era when cricket regulations and playing conditions were not as stringent as today. Of course, the opportunities were also limited as compared to today, but the rewards, appreciation and acknowledgement [were] always extremely high and satisfying,” he was quoted saying.