August 27, 2008	Wednesday	Sha'aban 24, 1429

KARACHI, Aug 26: Pakistan’s legendary opening batsman Hanif Mohammad on Tuesday rated his meeting with Sir Donald Bradman in Adelaide during the 1964 tour among the greatest moments of his career and said the Aussie genius was the ‘god of cricket’.

Paying tribute to Sir Don on the occasion of the centenary celebrations of his birth, Hanif recalled how Bradman addressed the Pakistan team at an official dinner-reception on the ’64 tour. “His presence there was awe-inspiring,” said Hanif, known as the ‘Little Master’ in international cricket for his batting exploits during the ‘50s and the ‘60s. “I vividly remember the historic moment and will forever cherish the tribute Bradman paid me when he said, ‘I thought Hanif was a muscular guy, about six feet two inches tall, who kept the bowlers at bay with his unflappable style of batting. I am surprised and happy to meet him and all of you here’.”

Recollecting another rare incident from the tour, Hanif, who scored consistently against the formidable Australians then and narrowly missed a century in each innings at Melbourne, said: “Bradman stunned me when he showed up at the nets session prior to our three-day game in Adelaide. He wished me luck for the next day which was a boost indeed since I scored 110 not out in the first innings of that competitive game,” recalled Hanif. “For a man who ruled the world with his genius and was an iconic figure, it was such a fabulous gesture.”

In 1999, when Hanif’s biography was taking shape, he requested Sir Don for his comments. “He sent me a hand-written letter which I reproduced in my book,” said the Little Master. “It was so very special because it carried his comments and praise, not just for me but also for my whole family including my mother and my brothers. What more can one ask for.”