Former Test cricketer Farooq Hameed passes away

LAHORE: Former Test fast bowler Farooq Hameed, who made his debut for Pakistan in 1964 against Australia, died at the age of 80 after protracted illness  on Thursday.

Farooq was Pakistan’s Test cap number 48. His sole appearance for national team came against Australia in December 1964 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

The fast bowler’s solitary wicket on debut was former Australian captain Ian Chappell, who was also playing his first Test match.

Although Farooq played only Test match for Pakistan, the pacer had a notable domestic career.

The right-arm fast bowler took 111 wickets at an average of 25.21 in 43 first-class matches, in a career spanning from 1961 to 1970.

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The Lahore-born fast bowler’s best first-class bowling performance came against Wellington in the 1964-65 season, where he bowled unchanged through an innings, taking 7 for 16 and bowling out the opposition for 53.

Farooq Hameed represented Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) in domestic cricket, where he delivered exceptional performances with the ball.

Additionally, Hameed’s sister played a key role in establishing the Pakistan Women’s Cricket Association in 1978 and served as the inaugural secretary.

Apart from his cricketing journey, Farooq also earned his name as an International athlete, winning gold and silver medals in the Pakistan National Games between 1961 and 1970.

Farooq Hameed took retirement from cricket at the age of 25 in 1969, citing disappointment due to dirty politics in Pakistan cricket.

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