Pakistan loses legendary cricket bowler Abdul Qadir

By Aamir Latif

KARACHI, Pakistan (AA) - Pakistan's legendary spin bowler Abdul Qadir passed away on Friday due to cardiac arrest in the northeastern city of Lahore, his family confirmed. He was 63.

Born in 1956, Qadir -- also known as a dancing bowler due to his uncanny bowling style -- played his first test match against England in Lahore in 1977 and first one-day match against New Zealand in Birmingham in 1983.

The former star, who also served as chief selector of Pakistan’s team, played 67 Test and 104 One-Day International matches for his country.

His all-round performance with bat and ball, which helped Pakistan win a crucial match against the West Indies in the 1987 World Cup, is considered one of his best achievements for the country.

Qadir retired in the early 1990s.

Condolences poured in as news of his demise broke.

In a message, cricketer-turned Premier Imran Khan said that Pakistan has lost a great cricketer and a hero. Qadir had played under Khan's captaincy.

"The PCB [Pakistan Cricket Board] is shocked at the news of 'maestro' Abdul Qadir's passing and has offered its deepest condolences to his family and friends," PCB said in a tweet.

"The COAS [chief of Army Staff] expresses heartfelt grief on the demise of cricket legend Abdul Qadir," army spokesman Maj. Gen. Abdul Ghafoor tweeted.

Foreign Minister Qureshi said the world of cricket had lost a legend.