NEW DELHI: Experienced Pakistani pacer Mohammad Abbas on Friday equalled legend Imran Khan’s record of 13 ten-wicket hauls in first-class cricket.
Abbas achieved the feat during the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy‘s fifth round.
Representing Lahore Blues, Abbas put up an impressive performance, taking six wickets for 39 runs in 22 overs, including 10 maidens, in the first innings. He then continued the momentum in the second essay, securing four more wickets, resulting in a remarkable match figures of 10 for 74.
The accomplishment now places him alongside the legendary World Cup-winning captain, Imran.
It’s worth noting that Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis still hold the top spots on the all-time list for most 10-wicket hauls in first-class cricket in Pakistan, with 16 and 14 hauls respectively.
Despite consistent domestic performances, the 34-year-old has struggled to secure a permanent position in the national team since his debut in 2017. Although highly praised by South African paceman Dale Steyn, Abbas hasn’t quite lived up to the expectations.
However, in the ongoing Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, Abbas has demonstrated his remarkable skills, claiming 31 wickets at an average of 14.39. He has maintained a tight economy rate of 2.35 and has bowled 60 maiden overs in the tournament so far.
The year 2018 marked a significant period in Abbas’s international career. He claimed 27 wickets against England and Australia in consecutive series.
In his initial 10 Tests, Abbas took an impressive 59 wickets at an average of 15.64.