Batting Great Zaheer Abbas becomes sixth Pakistani cricketer to be inducted into ICC Hall of Fame

Zaheer Abbas, former batting legend has become the sixth Pakistani cricketer to join the International Cricket Council (ICC) Hall of Fame, the governing body announced on Sunday.

ICC has inducted three retired greats of the game into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame during an absorbing show broadcast around the world via ICC digital channels. “South Africa’s gritty all-rounder Jacques Kallis and talented Australian World Cup-winning all-rounder Lisa Sthalekar were joined by Zaheer Abbas of Pakistan, a stylish batsman of the 1970s and 80s who was also known as the Asian Bradman”, says ICC.

Legendary batsman Zaheer Abbas, 73, has been a prolific run-scorer during the 1970s and 1980s representing  Pakistan and English county side Gloucestershire.

In a press release, the ICC said that the announcement was made during a show streamed live on the council’s social media channels.

“In all, 93 players have been inducted so far under the system, which sees retired players become eligible five years after playing their last international match.”

In comments posted to the ICC’s website, Abbas, a former president of the global governing body and the only player from Asia to have scored a hundred first-class hundreds. said that he felt “privileged and truly humbled”.

“I am excited to be in the midst of other illustrious cricketers.

“I would like to say a special thanks to my family, my country Pakistan, my county Gloucestershire and many fans worldwide who helped me achieve and fulfill my dreams by playing this great game at the highest level.

“Thank you ICC and the members of the jury for this special honour. It is a final recognition for any cricketer.

“This great game has made me the person I am. Thank you cricket.”