Syed Mushtaq Ali


Syed Mushtaq Ali was an Indian cricketer, a right-handed opening batsman who holds the distinction of scoring the first overseas Test century by an Indian player when he scored 112 against England at Old Trafford in 1936.
He batted right-handed but was a slow left arm orthodox spin bowler. He bowled frequently enough in domestic matches to be classified as an all-rounder but only occasionally in test matches. Mushtaq Ali was noted for his graceful batting style and a flair which often cost him his wicket by being over-adventurous too soon in an innings.

Career

Mushtaq Ali was the discovery of C. K. Nayudu who observed him at Indore at the age of 13 and helped to develop his cricketing skills.
A Wisden Special Award winner, he scored four first-class hundreds in the 1936 tour. He was an opening or middle order right-hand batsman but hardly played international cricket mainly due to World War II. In total, he played in 11 tests. He made his debut in the test against England at Calcutta, 5–8 Jan 1934, and played his last test against England at Madras, 6–10 Feb 1952, at the age of 38.

Domestic cricket

Mushtaq Ali played extensively for regional team and private clubs when cricket was a young sport in India. He was not only a sporting legend, but a popular superstar of his time, and an icon for the younger generation of Indian youth. Combining with another legend, the cautious yet skilled Vijay Merchant, Mushtaq Ali's aggression and powerful stroke play formed a dynamic and legendary opening partnership for the team for years.
He played for Holkar in the National Championship for the Ranji Trophy along with other stalwarts like C. K. Nayudu. He was awarded the Padma Shri in 1964 and made a life member of the Marylebone Cricket Club for his contribution to the game. He died in his sleep, at the age of 90. He is survived by two sons and two daughters. The Indian domestic T20 series is named after him. Mushtaq Ali's son, Gulrez Ali, and his grandson, Abbas Ali, both played first-class cricket.

Awards