Former Test cricketer and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ijaz Butt passed away in Lahore on Thursday at the age of 85.

The cricket board said it was saddened by the news of Butt’s demise and extended heartfelt condolences to his friends and family.

In a statement, PCB Management Committee Chairperson Zaka Ashraf said: “I had the privilege of knowing him personally and I have nothing but utmost respect for Butt.”

“I offer my deepest condolences to Ijaz Butt’s family and friends, and assure them that he will always be remembered for the contributions he made to Pakistan cricket,” Ashraf said.

Cricketer Imamul Haq also said he was saddened to learn of Butt’s demise.

Sports journalist Mirza Iqbal Baig also prayed for Butt, noting that he had been ill for the past few years.

A former Test wicket-keeper/batsman, Butt played eight Test matches for Pakistan. He served as the PCB chief from 2008 to 2011, and during his tenure the cricket team won the ICC T20 World Cup in 2009.