Mohammad Abbas, Pakistan’s underrated Test pacer, has added another milestone to his career, equaling the legendary Imran Khan’s record of 13 ten-wicket hauls in first-class cricket during the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy (QEAT) 2024-25.
Masterclass in Bowling
Representing Lahore Blues, Abbas delivered a stellar performance against the FATA Region in the fifth round of the tournament. In the first innings, the right-arm pacer took 6 wickets for 39 runs in 22 overs, including 10 maidens. He followed up with 4 wickets for 35 runs in the second innings, finishing the match with impressive figures of 10/74.
Read More: Imran Khan Secures Bail in Latest Toshakhana case
Joining Pakistan’s Elite List
Abbas’ remarkable achievement places him among an exclusive group of Pakistani bowlers, including Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, and Imran Khan. With 13 ten-wicket hauls, Abbas is now tied for third on Pakistan’s all-time list, behind Waqar (14) and Wasim (16).
Dominance in the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy
Abbas’ stellar performance also lifted him to second place on the leading wicket-takers chart for QEAT 2024-25, with 31 wickets at an exceptional average of 14.39 and an economy rate of 2.35. He has also bowled the most maidens (60) in the tournament, showcasing his relentless pressure on opposition batters.
A Journey of Peaks and Valleys
Abbas emerged as a key figure in Pakistan’s Test bowling attack in 2017, praised for his accuracy and consistency. His breakthrough 10-wicket haul against Australia in 2018 earned him recognition, with South African great Dale Steyn predicting his rise to the top of the Test rankings. However, Abbas’ form dipped in later years, with his last five-wicket haul in Tests coming in 2018. He has not appeared for Pakistan since the West Indies tour in August 2021, as he gradually fell out of favor with the national team selectors.
