Fazal Mahmood

Profession: Cricketer

Nationality:

Biography: Fazal Mahmood was a Pakistani cricketer who became one of the country's first cricket stars, playing a pivotal role in establishing Pakistan as a significant force in international cricket.

A right-arm fast-medium bowler, he was instrumental in Pakistan's early successes, including their first-ever Test match win against India in 1952 and their first series win against England in 1954.

He played a total of 34 Test matches for Pakistan between 1952 and 1962, taking 139 wickets at an average of 24.70. He was the first Pakistani cricketer to surpass 100 wickets, which feat he achieved in his 22nd match.

His performances often came when Pakistan needed them the most, with some calling him the hero of the Oval for his 12-wicket haul against England in 1954 that sealed Pakistan's first series win against a major cricketing nation.

Fazal led the Pakistani national team as captain from 1959 to 1961, after succeeding the prior captain, Abdul Kardar. He was eventually removed as captain after two poor matches, and retired the next year.

After retiring from cricket, Mahmood came to focus more on his religion and eventually published his Urge to Faith (1970), examining the proper role of Islam in Pakistani politics. He was awarded the Pride of Performance by the Government of Pakistan in 1958.

Born: February 18, 1927
Birthplace: Lahore, Pakistan

Generation: Greatest Generation
Chinese Zodiac: Rabbit
Star Sign: Aquarius

Died: May 30, 2005 (aged 78)