The legendary leg-spinner of Pakistan, Abdul Qadir, who represented his nation for almost 16 years, has been inducted into the elite list of PCBs Hall of Fame ahead of the second One-Day International between Pakistan and Australia.
The most successful spinner of Pakistan, Saqlain Mushtaq, inducted Abdul Qadir into the eight-man elite group. Usman Qadir, the youngest son of Late Abdul Qadir, received the awards on his late father's behalf.
Notably, Abdul Qadir passed away on 6 September 2019. Over a 13-year Test career, he picked up 236 wickets at an average of 32.80, including a nine-for against England. He also has 132 ODI wickets to his name.
While receiving awards on his father's behalf, Usman said that his father would be pleased to see how his organization acknowledges him for his services at his favourite stadium. He further said that he is grateful to PCB for recognizing his late father's services to Pakistan.
"I am sure dad watching from up there will be delighted with the way his institution has recognized him today in front of his fans and at his favourite cricket ground. Cricket was everything for him, and on behalf of my family, I thank the PCB for acknowledging his services to Pakistan and the global game," Usman said after receiving the awards on his late father's behalf.
Besides his bowling skills, Qadir is also remembered for his unbeaten 16 off just nine balls against West Indies in the 1987 World Cup, which helped Pakistan seal a one-wicket victory and a spot in the n semi-finals of the 1987 World Cup.
"He was a cricket genius who was always happy to share his knowledge and experience. He took a lot of pride in the art he had mastered, ultimately giving cricket a new dimension. Rest followed him and contributed to making wrist spin bowling a lethal weapon that is equally entertaining to watch and follow in all formats of the game," Usman Qadir added.
Saqlain Mushtaq, who presented the award to Qadir, said it was an absolute honour for him to induct the legendary leg-spinner into the PCB Hall of Fame.
"It is an honour and pride for me to formally induct Abdul Qadir into the PCB Hall of Fame on behalf of the Pakistan Cricket Board. Abdul Qadir is a hero and a star for all generations for his outstanding and marvellous contributions to this great game."