Brief profile of Fazal Mahmood by Ateeq Abdul Rauf

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DateLine: 21st February 2005

If there was ever a first hero in Pakistans cricketing history, then Fazal Mahmood would arguably be the number one contender. With looks that would make any movie star proud, Fazal was brilliant with the ball as well - an exceptional medium-pacer who could move the ball off the pitch in both directions.

Fazal made a monumental contribution towards helping Pakistan achieve their first victory in England in the Oval Test in 1954 (with figures of 12-99) for which he is best remembered. He also had a significant hand in his teams first victory against Australia in the Karachi Test in 1955 (with figures of 13-114). His tally of 139 wickets in an era when cricket was played with long gaps in between series proves that he was truly one of Pakistans greats.

Fazal was the first Pakistani to become Wisden Cricketer of the Year in 1955. He released an autobiography by the name of From Dusk to Dawn in 2003.