ISLAMABAD: The biography of Pakistan’s former Test opener late Alimuddin was launched at the Pakistan High Commission in London.

Syed Ibne Abbas, Pakistan’s High Commissioner to the UK, was the guest of honour at the book launching ceremony, a message received here on Friday said.

Salimuddin, brother of the late cricketer and other family members were present at the ceremony.

The book titled Alimuddin: A Straight Bat has been written by Dr Khadim Hussain Baloch, Mohammed Salim Parvez and Najum Latif. The authors have followed Alimuddin’s career from 1948 onwards, both in Karachi and later in the UK.

The book unveils fascinating facts about the late cricketer’s personal and professional life as well as the history of Pakistan cricket.

In his welcome remarks, Syed Ibne Abbas paid glowing tribute to Alimuddin for his contribution towards the promotion of Pakistan cricket and upholding professionalism in the sport.

He said cricket is considered to be the game of gentlemen and urged the cricket heroes, fans and players to pass on the game together with its values and principles to the younger generation.

The High Commissioner said: “Our unparalleled performance in sports like cricket, hockey and squash brought us laurels. We need to enhance our focus on sports to regain the past glory. I congratulate the authors on their accomplishment and hope that the cricket lovers will benefit from this book.”

Other speakers, who paid tributes to the late cricketer, included Mohammed Salim Parvez, former Pakistan captain Asif Iqbal, Salimuddin, Riazuddin and Dr Obaidullah Hoodbhoy. Taher Memon moderated the ceremony.

Alimuddin (1930-2012) who represented Pakistan in 25 Tests, was a right-handed batsman mostly opening with ‘Little Master’ Hanif Mohammad. He scored two Test centuries against India and England respectively, at the National Stadium Karachi.

Published in Dawn March 7th , 2015

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