Former Pakistan all-rounder Billy Ibadulla passes away

Warwickshire County Cricket Club have announced that former Pakistan all-rounder Billy Ibadulla, who played four Tests for Pakistan between 1964 and 1967, has passed away. Ibadulla, 88, is believed to have breathed his last in the early hours of July 12 (Friday).

A right-handed batter who bowled both off-spin and medium pace, Ibadulla, in 1964, became the first Pakistan cricketer to score a century on Test debut. He smashed 166 against Australia in Karachi opening the batting. 

He also took one Test wicket, against England in Nottingham in 1967 in what turned out to be his last Test. The late Thomas Graveney turned out to be Ibadulla’s only victim with the ball in Tests.

But despite only making four international appearances, Ibadulla was a domestic behemoth. He made 439 appearances for Warwickshire in First Class and List A cricket across an 18-year span, winning three domestic trophies. 

“Warwickshire County Cricket Club is deeply saddened to learn that former Pakistan international and Bears legendary all-rounder Khalid “Billy” Ibadulla has passed away at the age of 88,” the club said in a statement.

“Everyone’s thoughts at Warwickshire County Cricket Club are with Billy’s family and friends.”

In all, Ibadulla scored 14,766 runs for Warwickshire, apart from taking 418 wickets in his 377 appearances for the club.

He amassed 1000 runs in a season six times, with a highest tally of 2,098 runs in 1962. 

His son, Kassem Ibadulla, is also a professional cricketer, who played a total of 50 first class and List A matches between 1982 and 1990.

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