Photo Credit: PCB
- Inzamam-ul-Haq, Misbah-ul-Haq, Mushtaq Mohammad and Saeed Anwar voted by an 11-member independent panel that included PCB Hall of Famers, women international cricketers and journalists
- “Their talent, charisma and unwavering commitment have made them true ambassadors of cricket and the PCB takes immense pride in honouring their accomplishments,” says Mohsin Naqvi
- “I hope that our aspiring cricketers will look up to these icons and strive to follow in their footsteps, carrying forward their legacy and continuing to strengthen Pakistan’s position as a cricketing powerhouse,” says PCB Chair
FORMER GREATS Inzamam-ul-Haq, Misbah-ul-Haq, Mushtaq Mohammad and Saeed Anwar have been named in the PCB Hall of Fame for 2024, joining Abdul Qadir, AH Kardar, Fazal Mahmood, Hanif Mohammad, Imran Khan, Javed Miandad, Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, Younis Khan and Zaheer Abbas in the illustrious group.
The four icons of the game were inducted following an independent and transparent voting process, which was participated by Wasim Akram, Zaheer Abbas (both PCB Hall of Famers), Azhar Ali (former Pakistan captain), Bismah Maroof, Nain Abidi (both former women international cricketers), Majid Bhatti, Mohi Shah, Mohammad Yaqoob, Nauman Niaz, Sawera Pasha and Zahid Maqsood (cricket journalists/analysts).
The four stalwarts will be formally inducted into the PCB Hall of Fame during the course of the year when they will be presented with commemorative caps and specially-designed plaques.
Inzamam-ul-Haq played international cricket from 1991 to 2007 and was a member of Pakistan’s 1992 World Cup-winning team. Misbah-ul-Haq represented Pakistan from 2001 to 2017, was part of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2009 winning squad and guided the team to the No.1 spot in the ICC Test Team Rankings in 2016. Mushtaq Mohammad played for Pakistan from 1959 to 1979 and captained the team to its first-ever Test win in Australia in 1977, featured in inaugural ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 1975 in England before coaching the Pakistan side to the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 1999 final – also in England. Meanwhile, Saeed Anwar represented Pakistan from 1989 to 2003, amassing a total of 31 centuries and 68 half-centuries, including three centuries and three half-centuries across the 1996, 1999 and 2003 World Cups.
PCB Chair Mohsin Naqvi:
“On behalf of the Pakistan Cricket Board, I extend heartfelt congratulations to these four cricketing legends on their well-deserved inductions into the PCB Hall of Fame. This honour represents a tribute to their outstanding contributions to Pakistan cricket and to the global game.
“Mushtaq Mohammad is regarded as one of Pakistan’s finest captains, known for his astute leadership and inspiring style. Inzamam-ul-Haq’s immense talent and match-winning ability have left an indelible mark on the sport. Misbah-ul-Haq took charge of the Pakistan team during challenging times, guiding it to the pinnacle of Test rankings and achieving a historic series win in the Caribbean. Saeed Anwar, with his natural grace and classical technique, redefined the role of an opener and thrived against some of the world’s best bowlers under all conditions.
“These four giants of the game hold a special place in Pakistan’s rich cricketing history. Their contributions not only elevated the sport within Pakistan but also inspired future generations to pursue excellence. Their talent, charisma and unwavering commitment have made them true ambassadors of cricket and the PCB takes immense pride in honouring their accomplishments.
“Pakistan is fortunate to have produced such extraordinary players who have showcased their skill and sportsmanship on the global stage. I hope that our aspiring cricketers will look up to these icons and strive to follow in their footsteps, carrying forward their legacy and continuing to strengthen Pakistan’s position as a cricketing powerhouse.”
ABOUT THE 2024 INDUCTEES:
Inzamam-ul-Haq
INZAMAM-UL-HAQ (Leading run-scorer for Pakistan in ODI cricket [11,701] and third in the list of Pakistan Test run-scorers [8,829]. Off his 25 Test centuries, 17 were in winning matches; seven of his 10 ODI centuries earned Pakistan victories)
“I am deeply honoured to be inducted into the PCB Hall of Fame, joining a group of remarkable cricketers from my generation and those before me. To be recognised by the parent organisation of Pakistan cricket is truly special and I hope this initiative continues to inspire current and future generations of cricketers.
“My journey as a professional cricketer, representing Pakistan on the world stage for nearly 16 years, has been unforgettable. Competing across all Test playing nations, I am proud to say that the respect, recognition and love I have received throughout my career – both then and now – is because of Pakistan. Every run, half-century, century and victory, whether as a player or as a captain, has been cherished by our passionate fans, making each achievement more meaningful.
“I owe immense gratitude to my fellow cricketers, dedicated support staff and my family, without whom this journey would not have been possible. Representing Pakistan during an era with such high-caliber players was a privilege and their influence played a vital role in my growth and development as a batter.”
- Remains the leading run-scorer for Pakistan in ODI cricket (11,701), and is currently third in the list of Pakistan Test run-scorers (8,829). Captained Pakistan in 31 Tests, winning 11, drawing 9 and losing 11. Also led in 87 ODIs, winning 51, losing 33 and 3 no-results
- Off his 25 Test centuries, 17 were in winning causes; seven of his 10 ODI centuries earned Pakistan victories
- Enjoyed batting against England (1,584 runs; 54.62), Sri Lanka (1,559 runs; 59.96), West Indies (1,124 runs; 53.52), New Zealand (1059 runs; 66.18) and India (833 runs; 52.06)
- Found fame in the 1992 World Cup, when his 60 from 37 balls clinched victory in the semi-final against New Zealand and then followed up with a 35-ball 42 in the final victory over England
- Was top of the ICC Test batting rankings for a total of 79 days, covering 1995 and 1997
- His innings of 329 against New Zealand in Lahore in 2002 is the second highest in Pakistan’s Test history, only behind Hanif Mohammad’s 337 at Bridgetown in 1958
- Scored 184 against India in Bengaluru in 2005, making him one of only 10 players to have marked their 100th Test with a century
- Struck nine successive 50+ scores against England from 2001 to 2006, setting a record for the most consecutive half-centuries against a single country
- Twice served Pakistan as Chief Selector and also coached Afghanistan
Misbah-ul-Haq
MISBAH-UL-HAQ (Member of ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2009 winning side. Captained Pakistan to No.1 in ICC Men’s Test Team Rankings in 2016. Pakistan’s most successful Test captain who signed off on his career in 2017 by leading Pakistan to their only Test series victory to date in the West Indies)
“I am deeply honoured and humbled to be inducted into the PCB Hall of Fame, joining a distinguished group of Pakistan’s finest cricketers who have not only excelled in the game but have also elevated the country’s image on the global stage.
“Representing Pakistan was an absolute privilege, captaining the team was a profound honour and this recognition by the Pakistan Cricket Board serves as the perfect crowning achievement of my journey.
“Being acknowledged by your parent organisation, alongside the appreciation of cricketing experts and fellow players is both gratifying and fulfilling. It is a testament to the dedication, relentless effort and sacrifices that went into meeting the highest standards of international cricket and translating those preparations into memorable performances.
“I have been incredibly fortunate to have shared the field with some of the most talented and skilled cricketers, whose support and camaraderie enabled me to grow and improve throughout my career. As a captain, I had the privilege of leading players who were committed, passionate and driven to give their all for Pakistan. Their contributions were instrumental in shaping some of the most iconic moments in our cricketing history. For that, I remain deeply grateful.
“I would also like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the unwavering support of our fans, whose passion and enthusiasm have always been a source of strength and inspiration. Lastly, my deepest gratitude goes to my family, whose sacrifices and encouragement allowed me to pursue and achieve my dreams. This honor belongs as much to them as it does to me.”
- The only cricketer to captain Pakistan in, at least, 50 Tests, leading in 56 Tests and winning 26; also led the team in 87 ODIs (including in the 2015 World Cup) and in eight T20Is
- Scored 5,122 runs in 162 ODIs, by far the most runs by anyone in a career without scoring a century, despite scoring 42 half-centuries
- In 2016 under his captaincy, Pakistan topped the ICC Men’s Test Team Rankings for the first time since their inception in June 2003
- Played in three ICC Men’s T20 World Cups tournaments, helping Pakistan to reach the final in 2007 and winning the competition in England in 2009
- His 21-ball 24-minute half-century against Australia in Abu Dhabi in 2014 is the fastest in Test history in terms of balls faced and minutes batted. He went onto score his century off 56 balls, equalling the record at the time, and still the joint second-fastest in Test history
- Played in 15 World Cup matches in the 2011 and 2015 competitions, scoring seven half-centuries
- The only player to make three scores of 99 in Test cricket
- Signed off on his career in 2017 by leading Pakistan to their only Test series victory in the West Indies to date
- After retirement, served as head coach Pakistan men’s cricket team from 2019-2021. In 2019-2020, he was also the chief selector
Mushtaq Mohammad
MUSHTAQ MOHAMMAD (Made Test debut at 15 years 124 days and scored maiden Test century at 17 years 78 days. Captained Pakistan to first Test victory in Australia in 1977. Played in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 1975 in England and coached the national side in the 1999 event in the same country. Was the first Pakistan men’s team coach in 1980-81)
“To be honored and recognised 45 years after playing my last match for Pakistan is truly humbling. Joining a small group of some of the finest cricketers, including my legendary brother Hanif, is even more gratifying. I am deeply grateful to the Pakistan Cricket Board for once again demonstrating its affection, love and care for those who have served this great game with distinction.
“Being part of the Pakistan cricket team during its formative years was both exciting and rewarding. Despite having fewer playing opportunities, dealing with uncovered or matting pitches and facing fearsome fast bowlers without any restrictions on bouncers with insufficient protective gears, our matches were highly competitive and, followed and cherished by the Pakistani cricket fans, whose hearts have always beat for cricket since our very first Test in 1952.
“I feel privileged to have played alongside and against some of the most outstanding cricketers and thorough gentlemen, who played hard while always upholding the true spirit of the game.
“I am delighted to follow the growth of Pakistan cricket and the Pakistan Cricket Board, and I hope the current and future generation of cricketers will continue to bring more laurels, honours and trophies for Pakistan and its fans worldwide.”
- Scored 3,643 runs and took 79 wickets in 57 Tests from 1959-1979; captained Pakistan in 19 Tests between 1976 and 1979, winning eight (including Pakistan’s first Test win in Australia in Sydney in 1977), drawing seven and losing four; also featured in the 1975 World Cup in England
- Scored 87 and took 5-28 on his first-class debut at the age of just 13 years and 41 days for Karachi Whites against Sindh in Hyderabad in January 1957
- Became the youngest player at the time to win a Test cap when he represented Pakistan against the West Indies in Lahore at the age of 15 years 124 days
- Two years later, became the youngest player at the time to score a Test century when he made 101 against India in New Delhi when aged 17 years 78 days
- Remains the only Pakistan player to twice score a century and take five wickets in an innings in the same Test
- Is one of only two players to score a double-century and take five wickets in an innings in the same Test, with 201 and 5-49 against New Zealand at Dunedin in 1973
- Regarded as one of the first players to pioneer the reverse-sweep, playing the stroke as far back as the 1970s
- Was the first Pakistani to score 25,000 first-class runs and ended with a total of 31,091 runs along with 936 wickets; played for Northamptonshire from 1964 to 1977 and captained them to their first trophy when they won the 1976 Gillette Cup
- Coached Pakistan to ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 1999 final
- Along with Hanif, Sadiq and Wazir, his family provides the only example of four brothers playing Test cricket
Saeed Anwar
SAEED ANWAR (In 1993, struck three successive ODI centuries in Sharjah. Scored 194 against India in Chennai to break Viv Richards’ long-standing record for the highest individual score in ODIs. In 1999 in Kolkata, became just the third Pakistan batter to carry his bat through a Test innings while scoring a match-winning 188)
“I am deeply grateful to the independent panel for inducting me into the PCB Hall of Fame. Receiving this recognition from the Pakistan Cricket Board is an immense honour that fills me with pride. It’s humbling to join the ranks of my childhood heroes and teammates with whom I shared and celebrated some of the most defining moments of Pakistan cricket.
“As an opening batter, I was privileged to play in an era graced by some of the most talented and accomplished cricketers who represented Pakistan. I cherished every moment of laying the foundation for our team, taking on the world’s best bowlers, and partnering with match-winners to bring joy to our fans. I am deeply grateful to the Almighty for bestowing upon me the skills, patience and strength needed to represent this great nation and be part of an exceptional team for nearly 14 years.
“My journey had its challenges, but it was a privilege to face them head-on. Each match I played for Pakistan holds a special place in my heart, though missing out on the ICC Cricket World Cup 1992 remains a regret.
“This journey, filled with triumphs and lessons, wouldn’t have been complete without the overwhelming support of our fans and the camaraderie of my teammates.”
- Recovered from making a ‘pair’ on his Test debut to score 169 in his third Test and end with 4,052 runs (11 centuries) in 55 Tests; captained Pakistan in seven Tests
- Scored 8,824 runs in 247 ODIs, including 7,227 runs in 205 away ODIs. More than 20 years after his last match, remains Pakistan’s leading century-maker in ODI cricket with 20 such scores. Also captained in 11 ODIs
- Stroked a century in his last Test innings (101 vs Bangladesh, Multan, 2001) and also hit a century in his last but one ODI (101 vs India, Centurion, 2003)
- Scored 2,198 runs in 52 ODIs against Sri Lanka and 2002 runs in 50 ODIs against India; scored 919 runs in 11 Tests against Sri Lanka and 886 runs in 8 Tests against Australia
- In 1993, struck three successive centuries in ODI cricket with 107 against Sri Lanka, 131 against the West Indies and 111 against Sri Lanka, all in the space of four days in Sharjah
- In 1997, struck 194 against India in Chennai to break Viv Richards’ long-standing record for the highest individual score in ODI cricket
- His innings of 176 against England in The Oval Test of 1996 helped him to be named one of Wisden Cricketers’ Almanack’s Five Cricketers of the Year
- In Kolkata in 1999, became just the third Pakistan player to carry his bat through a Test innings when he struck a match-winning 188 against India
- Was Pakistan’s leading run-scorer in three successive ICC Men’s Cricket World Cups – in 1996, 1999 and 2003
Independent Panel that voted for the 2024 inductions in the PCB Hall of Fame: Wasim Akram, Zaheer Abbas (both PCB Hall of Famers), Azhar Ali (former Pakistan captain), Bismah Maroof, Nain Abidi (both former women international cricketers), Majid Bhatti, Mohi Shah, Mohammad Yaqoob, Nauman Niaz, Sawera Pasha and Zahid Maqsood (cricket journalists/analysts).
Other PCB Hall of Fame members: Abdul Qadir, AH Kardar, Fazal Mahmood, Hanif Mohammad, Imran Khan, Javed Miandad, Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, Younis Khan and Zaheer Abbas
Note to Editors: Each year, the PCB inducts two former cricketers in the PCB Hall of Fame. Four inductions have been made for 2024 as there were no inductions in 2023.
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Name of Author: PCB
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), formerly the Board of Control for Cricket in Pakistan, is the governing body for cricket in Pakistan. It oversees and organizes all tours and matches for the Pakistan national cricket team. A member of the International Cricket Council since 1952, the PCB represents Pakistan’s men’s and women’s teams in international cricket tournaments.
