Mumbai, March 12 Syed Abil Ali, who played 29 Tests for India between December 1967 and December 1974 as an all-rounder, passed away at the age of 83 in Tracy, California, his relative, Reza Khan of North America Cricket League (NACL) informed in a social media post on Wednesday.
A lower-order batter who also bowled medium pace, Abid Ali was one of the stars of the Indian cricket team in the last 1960s and early 1970s, rising from the maidans of Hyderabad in Andhra Pradesh to prominence.
"It is with profound reverence and a heart full of admiration that I share with you the passing of Uncle Syed Abid Ali a cricketing legend from India who made Tracy, California, his home, and whose remarkable legacy continues to inspire us to strive for excellence. He played for Indian Cricket Team. His extraordinary inspiration and role modeling continue to energize me, embodying the spirit of excellence that motivates us all to reach new heights," said Reza Khan in his post on the official page of NACL on Facebook.
Abid Ali made his Test debut against Australia on December 23, 1967, and played his last Test against West Indies starting December 15, 1974. In 29 Tests, he scored 1,018 runs at an average of 20.36, scoring six half-centuries. His highest score was 81. Abid Ali also claimed 47 wickets at an average of 42.12 with a best haul of 6/55.
He also represented India in five One-day International matches, scoring 93 runs with a top score of 70. He claimed seven wickets at 26.71.
Abid Ali was a stalwart of First-Class cricket, scoring 8,732 runs in 212 matches, playing mostly for Hyderabad in the Ranji Trophy. He scored 13 centuries and 31 fifties in FC with a top score of 173 not out. In these 212 matches, Abid Ali claimed 397 wickets bagging five wickets in an innings on 14 occasions. He also scored 169 runs in 12 List A matches and took 19 wickets.
After retiring from cricket, Abid Ali shifted to the United States making a home in California. In his Facebook post, Reza Khan said Abid Ali played a key role in promoting cricket in California.
"The North America Cricket League (NACL) and the growth of cricket in the Bay Area owe a debt of gratitude to his tireless efforts and contributions to the Northern California Cricket Association (NCCA), a testament to his enduring impact.
"Let us remember him in our prayers and celebrate his remarkable legacy, honoring his memory by continuing to pursue our passions with dedication and perseverance," said REza Khan in his post.
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