The Test cricketer revealed that his recovery is going at a rapid pace and he is already planning to make a comeback to the international stage – subject to his fitness and clearance from doctors
04 June, 2022
PHOTO: File
Abid Ali, who was diagnosed with acute coronary syndrome during a match of the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, has opened up about the incident in an exclusive interview with Cricket Pakistan.
The Test cricketer revealed that his recovery is going at a rapid pace and he is already planning to make a comeback to the international stage – subject to his fitness and clearance from doctors.
“The last 5-6 months, I have been in extreme discomfort, but I am back to normal routine thanks to Allah Almighty. The situation I was in, I never expected to be in this position,” Abid said.
Abid Ali remained humble and extended credit to everyone who helped me in times of need.
“I would like to thank the PCB and all those who supported me, especially Ramiz Raja and NCA doctors on the panel. Additionally, I am also thankful to have a great team who are working with me and helping me in the rehabilitation centre,” he said.
“I never imagined such an incident could ever occur and initially, it felt as if my cricketing career was over. But all praise to Allah Almighty and all the doctors who motivated me to make a comeback; fans and media also played a key role in it,” Abid added.
Responding to whether he is still fearful of what had happened in the past, he said he tries his best to remain positive.
“Of course, when I think about it, I am reminded of it but all you can do is remain positive and pray for a healthy and a better life,” he said.
Speaking about his recovery and his possible return to the international stage, Abid Ali said that he will give his 100 per cent and the rest is up to the Allah Almighty.
“I want to regain my form and continue representing Pakistan how I was doing so before. The result is in the hands of Allah; all I can do is prepare myself and make sure that I remain fully fit to make a comeback,” he said.
Revealing the inspiration behind why he chose cricket, Abid Ali said: “Everybody dreams of representing Pakistan. For me, the motivation started in from hometown of Mozang, where Wasim Akram and Sarfaraz Nawaz were also born. They were my idols and I wanted to represent Pakistan the same way as them.”
Abid Ali said that he remains hopeful for Pakistan cricket because he too went through the entire process before being selected for the national team.
“I went through all the processes; from representing Pakistan in U-19, then playing U-19 World Cup, Grade-2 cricket, and then First-Class. After going through a proper process, I broke into the international team, and I am especially glad because I performed at every level,” he revealed.
“I made the record against Australia and then in Test format as well and all the credit goes to Allah Almighty and every coach or person who has helped me throughout my career,” he remarked.
Abid Ali became the first player in history to score a century on his ODI and Test debut as well.
“I made another record against Zimbabwe when I scored the double century and my partnership with Nauman Ali – that was also something I was extremely proud of,” he further added.
Abid Ali has etched his name in record books several times; he said he is ecstatic since his efforts enabled him to promote Pakistan’s name on the international stage as well.
“Any record that I have created, I am not only happy for myself but for Pakistan as well. The media teams have always promoted me, and I’m glad because it helps promote a good image for Pakistan as well,” he added.
