PCB inducts ‘Fab Four’ into Hall of Fame

ISLAMABAD: Four legendary cricketers have been inducted into the PCB’s Hall of Fame for year 2024, joining other prominent cricketers of yesteryears.

Those named in the Hall of Fame include Inzamam-ul-Haq, Misbah-ul-Haq, Mushtaq Mohammad and Saeed Anwar. These four will join 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 in PCB Hall of Fame), Azhar Ali (former Pakistan captain), Bismah Maroof, Nain Abidi (both former women international cricketers), Majid Bhatti, Abdul 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 Chairman Mohsin Naqvi hailed their inclusion, saying: “On behalf of the Pakistan Cricket Board, I extend heartfelt congratulations to these four cricketing legends on their well-deserved induction 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.”

Inzamam thanked the PCB for including him in illustrious group: “I am deeply honoured to be inducted into the Hall of Fame, joining a group of remarkable cricketers. 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.”

Former Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq said: “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.”

Mushtaq Mohammad, who served Pakistan cricket in toughest of era, said: “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 PCB for once again demonstrating its affection, love and care for those who have served this great game with distinction.”

The stylish left-handed batsman Saeed Anwar also praised PCB’s initiative: “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.