Pakistan's oldest Test cricketer Israr Ali dies aged 88

Pakistan lost its oldest living Test cricketer Israr Ali at the age of 88. The former Pakistani allrounder died in his hometown of Okara. He had played four Tests from 1952 to 1959 for his country.

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Pankaj Samantray
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Pakistan's oldest Test cricketer Israr Ali dies aged 88

Pakistan lost its oldest living Test cricketer Israr Ali at the age of 88. The former Pakistani allrounder died in his hometown of Okara. He had played four Tests from 1952 to 1959 for his country.

Ali played around 40 first-class matches, claiming 114 wickets at 22.63 and scored 1130 runs at 20.54. He had begun his career for Punjab before partition and then opted to play for Pakistan. He had also toured India in 1952-53 and played two Tests.

His great achievement was when he had dismissed Australia opener Les Favell in all four innings without the assistance of fielders during 1959-60.

His biggest regret was the fallout with then Pakistan captain Abdul Hafeez Kardar, which shortened his international career.  

Post retirement, the former allrounder stayed involved in cricket administration and was president of the Multan region from 1981 to 1982. He was also a member of Pakistan's selection committee in 1983 and 1984, before he decided to move away from the game.