Pakistan is going to commemorate the 78th birthday of its best cricketing legend, Zaheer Abbas, on July 24, 2025. Popularly referred to as the “Asian Bradman” due to his classy stroke play and run-scoring prowess, Zaheer Abbas is still an icon of excellence in Pakistan’s cricket history.
Early Life and Birthplace
Zaheer Abbas was born on July 24, 1947, in Sialkot – a city steeped in sporting tradition and celebrated for nurturing some of Pakistan’s finest athletes. Abbas displayed early promise with the bat, and his elegant technique was set to make him rise to prominence amongst his contemporaries.
Test Debut: Modesty Personified
Zaheer Abbas also made his Test debut for Pakistan in October 1969, against New Zealand at the National Stadium in Karachi. Though his first match did not bring out his best, it was evident that he possessed the temperament as well as the skill required for the topmost level.
Breakthrough Performance in England
His real coming of age on the global scene occurred during Pakistan’s 1971 England tour. In his second Test game, at Edgbaston, Birmingham, Abbas amazed the world of cricket with a glorious 274-run knock. Not only did this place him in the limelight on the global arena, but it also gave him a nickname that would stick for life.
The “Asian Bradman”
After his remarkable double century in England, renowned Daily Express columnist Crafter White honored Zaheer Abbas with the title “Asian Bradman,” highlighting his majestic stroke play and dominance at the crease. The nickname adhered and became his name, which was a testament to his elegant batting style that reminded everyone of the great Don Bradman.
Test Career Achievements
Zaheer Abbas represented his country in 78 Test matches throughout his global career, hitting 5,062 runs in 124 innings. His high batting average and steady play ensured that Pakistan won a number of significant matches throughout the 1970s and early 1980s.
Stats:
Test Matches Played: 78
Total Test Runs: 5,062
Test Centuries: 12
Double Centuries: 4
These statistics bear witness to Abbas’s incredible talent and unshakeable commitment at the wicket.
Legacy and Influence
Zaheer Abbas is still an icon for generations of cricketers from Pakistan and the rest of the world. His elegant batting, composed nature, and famous innings still inspire young cricketers who aspire to don the green cap.
In his later years, Abbas also contributed to the game as an administrator and received many awards, both at home and abroad, for his contributions to cricket.
Celebrating a Legend
As July 24, 2025, draws near, cricket fans will remember and commemorate the life and times of Zaheer Abbas once more. His legacy in the game has left an everlasting impact on Pakistan cricket; thus, his birthday is a day to be proud of and nostalgic about cricket.