Syed Abid Ali, a former Indian cricketer and all-rounder, passed away on March 12, 2025, due to cardiac complications at his home in Tracy, California. He was 83. Born in Hyderabad in 1941, Abid Ali was a key member of India’s 1971 Test team that won India’s first-ever victory at The Oval. He made his Test debut against Australia in 1967 and went on to play 29 Tests for India.
Abid Ali was known for his aggressive batting, sharp medium pace, and lightning fielding. He was part of India’s legendary 1971 team that beat England, marking the country’s first-ever series victory on the opposition’s home turf. Abid Ali also featured in India’s first ODI game in 1974 and was a member of the 1975 World Cup team. He delivered India’s first-ever ball in ODI cricket.
[news_related_post]After retiring from cricket, Abid Ali settled in Northern California but remained committed to the sport. He was a central figure at the Northern California Cricket Association (NCCA) and regularly played and coached local teams. His contributions to Hyderabad, Indian cricket, and global cricket development will always be remembered. Indian and foreign cricketers have offered their condolences to the departed all-rounder, recalling him as a sacrificing team man, guide, and a genuine ambassador of the sport.
