Today marks the 90th birth anniversary of Pakistan's cricketing legend, Hanif Mohammad.
Fondly known as the "Little Master", Hanif was a batting icon who mesmerized cricket fans around the world with his incredible technique, patience, and temperament. With a career spanning over two decades, Hanif played 55 Tests for Pakistan, scoring 3,915 runs at an average of 43.98, including 12 centuries.
Hanif's legacy extends far beyond his impressive statistics. He was a true pioneer of Pakistani cricket, playing a key role in establishing the country's reputation as a force to be reckoned with in the sport.
Hanif's most memorable innings remains the 337 he scored against the West Indies in 1958, which still stands as the longest innings played by a Pakistani batsman in terms of time spent at the crease. His incredible 970-minute vigil at the crease, spread over three days, was a testament to his remarkable endurance and concentration. This iconic innings not only saved Pakistan from defeat but also earned Hanif widespread acclaim and admiration.
Hanif also held the record for the highest first-class score, 499, which he made for Karachi against Bahawalpur in 1959. The record stood for 35 years before Brian Lara surpassed the record by scoring 501 for Warwickshire against Durham.
Four brothers, Hanif, Wazir, Mushtaq and Sadiq, played Test cricket for Pakistan, while Raees, the fifth, was a 12th man once, after the family migrated from India following Partition in 1947.
Despite his passing in 2016, Hanif's legacy continues to inspire and influence Pakistani cricket.
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