The Pakistan cricket community is in mourning following the sad demise of former Test cricketer and chief selector, Mohammad Ilyas. The respected figure passed away in Lahore on Monday after battling a prolonged illness. He was 79 years old.
A Distinguished Career in Cricket
Mohammad Ilyas, who was Pakistan's Test cap number 49, served the nation in 10 Test matches between 1964 and 1969. A right-handed batter and a right-arm leg-spin bowler, he made his debut against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on December 4, 1964. His final Test appearance was against England in Dhaka in February–March 1969.
His domestic career was long and illustrious, spanning from 1961 to 1976. Ilyas amassed 4,607 runs in first-class cricket, which included 12 centuries, demonstrating remarkable consistency. He also played two List-A matches towards the end of his playing days.
The Historic Karachi Century
One of the standout moments of Ilyas's career came during Pakistan's historic home series win over New Zealand in 1965. In the third Test in Karachi, opening the batting, he played a magnificent innings of 126 runs. This knock was pivotal in Pakistan successfully chasing a target of 202, securing a 2-0 series victory. That innings is still remembered as one of the finest chase efforts in Pakistan's early Test history.
Tributes Pour In From the Fraternity
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi expressed deep sorrow and extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. He paid tribute to Ilyas's valuable contributions, describing him as a dedicated servant of the game whose legacy would be respected for years to come.
The Sports Journalists Association of Lahore (SJAL) also expressed profound grief. Chairman Zahid Maqsood, President Aqeel Ahmed, Secretary Yousuf Anjum, and other members remembered Ilyas as a warm colleague and a true ambassador of cricket, offering prayers for his soul and strength for his family.
Punjab Minister for Sports and Youth Affairs, Malik Faisal Ayub Khokhar, highlighted Ilyas's multifaceted services. He noted his contributions not just as a Test player and chief selector for the men's team, but also for his role in promoting women's cricket as the head of the Women's Cricket Selection Panel.
Director General Sports Punjab, Khizar Afzaal Chaudhry, termed Ilyas a respected name in the cricketing world, asserting that his services to the sport would be remembered for generations.
The passing of Mohammad Ilyas marks the end of an era for Pakistan cricket, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and significant achievement both on and off the field.
