LONDON: Legendary Pakistan batter Zaheer Abbas rang the honorary bell at Lord’s Cricket Ground, marking the start of the second Test between Pakistan and England.
The ceremonial bell ringing, a cherished tradition at the ‘Home of Cricket’ since 2007, is performed by a notable former player to signal the commencement of daily play in a Test match.
Zaheer, also known as Asian-Bradman, performed the five-minute bell ringing ritual on day one.
Speaking after the ritual, Zaheer expressed pride in ringing the bell and said Pakistan had to bowl well and field well in a bid to win the match.
“It’s a great honor. They have to bowl well and field well,” he said.
Zaheer represented Pakistan in 78 Tests and amassed 5062 runs at an average of 44.79, including 12 centuries and 20 fifties.
He played 450 first-class matches and scored a record 34, 843 runs at an average of 51.54, including 108 centuries and 158 fifties.
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Zaheer Abbas was awarded Honorary Life Membership of the MCC in 1990 in recognition of his illustrious cricket career and contributions to the sport.
The play was halted due to bad light, with Pakistan in commanding position after reducing England to 248-9. Mohammad Abbas starred with the ball for the visitors, scalping four wickets.
Jordan Cox and Jamie Smith were the notable batters for the home side in another wise shambolic display, scoring 55 and 61, respectively.
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