Khan Mohammad, Pakistani cricketer (d. 2009)

Khan Mohammad (خان محمد), born on 1 January 1928, was a seminal figure in the early history of Pakistan Test cricket. A formidable right-arm fast-medium opening bowler, he was an integral member of Pakistan's inaugural Test team that played its first-ever match against arch-rivals India in 1952. Hailing from Lahore, Punjab, he received his education at the prestigious Islamia College in the same city, an institution renowned for nurturing cricketing talent.

Throughout his relatively brief but impactful Test career, Khan Mohammad featured in 13 matches. He formed a potent new-ball partnership with the legendary Fazal Mahmood, together spearheading Pakistan's bowling attack in its nascent years on the international stage. His name is etched in the annals of cricketing history for two truly pioneering achievements: he delivered Pakistan's very first ball in Test cricket and subsequently claimed the nation's first-ever Test wicket. This historic moment occurred during Pakistan's maiden Test match against India in Delhi in October 1952, when he dismissed India's captain, Lala Amarnath, caught behind by wicketkeeper Imtiaz Ahmed.

One of the most remarkable highlights of Khan Mohammad's career was his ability to dismiss the legendary English batsman Len Hutton for a duck during a Test match at Lord's in 1954. Hutton, considered one of the greatest batsmen of all time, was rarely dismissed without scoring, making this feat a testament to Khan Mohammad's skill, pace, and accuracy against the very best in the world at the spiritual home of cricket.

Prior to Pakistan's entry into Test cricket, Khan Mohammad had a notable stint in English county cricket. In 1951, he made a single appearance for Somerset, playing against the touring South African side. In that match, he showcased his talent by taking an impressive five wickets, demonstrating his effectiveness even on English pitches. The original intention behind his presence at Somerset was for him to qualify for the county through residence, a process that, by the rules of the time, would have required a three-year stay. However, this plan was curtailed when Pakistan achieved Test status approximately 18 months later.

Khan Mohammad made a profound choice, opting to return to his newly founded nation rather than continuing his county career. This decision underscored his deep patriotism and commitment, as Pakistan, in its infancy as a cricketing nation, desperately needed experienced and talented players like him to establish its presence on the global stage. His return was a significant contribution to building the foundation of Pakistani cricket.

After a life dedicated to cricket and having lived in England for his final four decades, Khan Mohammad passed away in London on 4 July 2009, at the age of 81, due to prostate cancer. His legacy as a pioneer and a significant figure in Pakistan's cricketing genesis remains profound.

Frequently Asked Questions About Khan Mohammad

• Who was Khan Mohammad?

  Khan Mohammad was a pioneering Pakistani Test cricketer, a right-arm fast-medium opening bowler, and a key member of Pakistan's first-ever Test team in 1952.

• What were Khan Mohammad's most significant achievements in Test cricket?

  He holds the unique distinction of bowling Pakistan's first-ever ball in Test cricket and taking Pakistan's first-ever Test wicket. He also famously dismissed legendary English batsman Len Hutton for a duck at Lord's in 1954.

• Why did Khan Mohammad leave Somerset County Cricket Club?

  He left Somerset, where he had briefly played with the intention of qualifying by residence, to return to Pakistan when the newly formed nation gained Test status. He chose to represent his country, which desperately needed experienced cricketers for its inaugural Test team.

• When and where did Khan Mohammad die?

  Khan Mohammad passed away in London on 4 July 2009, at the age of 81, due to prostate cancer, after living in England for approximately four decades.