The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has honored cricketing icons Inzamam-ul-Haq, Saeed Anwar, Misbah-ul-Haq, and Mushtaq Mohammad by inducting them into its prestigious Hall of Fame. They join an elite group that includes Abdul Qadir, Fazal Mahmood, Imran Khan, and Wasim Akram, among others.
Recognizing Outstanding Careers
- Inzamam-ul-Haq, a cornerstone of Pakistan’s 1992 World Cup-winning team, played internationally from 1991 to 2007.
- Misbah-ul-Haq represented Pakistan from 2001 to 2017, guided the team to victory in the 2009 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, and achieved the No. 1 ICC Test Team ranking in 2016.
- Mushtaq Mohammad, an all-rounder who played from 1959 to 1979, captained Pakistan to its first Test win in Australia in 1977 and coached the team to the 1999 Cricket World Cup final.
- Saeed Anwar, known for his elegant batting, played from 1989 to 2003 and famously scored 194 against India in Chennai, breaking Viv Richards’ ODI record.
Voting and Recognition
The inductees were selected by a distinguished panel, including cricket legends Wasim Akram, Zaheer Abbas, and women cricketers Bismah Maroof and Nain Abidi, alongside journalists and analysts.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi commended their contributions, stating, “This honor is a tribute to their outstanding contributions to Pakistan cricket and the global game.”
Reactions from the Inductees
- Inzamam-ul-Haq expressed his gratitude, calling the honor a testament to his 16-year cricketing journey.
- Misbah-ul-Haq described the recognition as a crowning achievement, emphasizing the sacrifices and effort required to excel in international cricket.
- Mushtaq Mohammad, humbled by the honor 45 years after his last match, reflected on being part of Pakistan cricket during its formative years.
- Saeed Anwar, grateful for the acknowledgment, called his career a journey of triumphs and lessons, though he noted missing the 1992 World Cup as a lasting regret.
Formal Induction
The four legends will be officially inducted later this year, receiving commemorative caps and plaques as symbols of their enduring legacy in Pakistan cricket.
This recognition underscores their impact on the sport, inspiring future generations of cricketers to uphold the values of dedication, resilience, and excellence.