Arshad Ayub, born on June 13, 1960, in Hyderabad, India, is a former cricketer who had a short yet eventful Test career. Known for his accuracy as a right-arm off-spinner and his capabilities as a useful lower-order batsman, Ayub encountered various ups and downs throughout his time on the field.
Ayub began his Test career against West Indies, where he showcased immense promise. In the first Test, he took four out of the five wickets that West Indies lost in the second innings, proving his bowling prowess. However, his remarkable performance was halted by a special innings from the legendary Vivian Richards. Nevertheless, Ayub’s skills with the bat were evident in the third Test, as he scored a fine 57 at number 9.
The following season, Ayub played a pivotal role in India’s series victory against New Zealand, taking an impressive 21 wickets in the three Tests. His success extended beyond Indian pitches, as he went on to claim 14 wickets against a formidable West Indian side in the Caribbean, including two five-wicket hauls.
Unfortunately, Ayub’s fortunes took a turn in the subsequent series in Pakistan, where he experienced a total failure. After two Tests, he remained wicketless and expensive, resulting in his exclusion from the team going forward.
Nevertheless, Ayub thrived in limited-overs cricket, often contributing significantly as a utility player. In the Asia Cup final against Pakistan in 1988, he played a crucial role in India’s victory by delivering an exceptional spell of five for 21, which were then the best bowling figures by an Indian in a One Day International (ODI).
Many believe that Ayub was discarded prematurely at the international level, denying him the opportunity to fulfill his true potential. However, this setback allowed him to dedicate himself wholeheartedly to Hyderabad, where he served with distinction for several years. Not only was he a shrewd captain, but his all-round performances were also exceptional, accumulating career figures of 2224 runs and 268 wickets.
Despite the brevity of his Test career, Ayub’s impact in domestic cricket and his notable performances in certain international matches solidified his status as a respected cricketer. His reliability in accuracy as a spinner and his handy contributions with the bat made him a valuable asset for any team he represented.
After retiring from cricket, Ayub remained involved in the sport, taking up coaching and administrative roles. He continued to contribute to the development of cricket in India, using his vast experience and knowledge to nurture young talents.
Arshad Ayub’s journey in cricket may have been short-lived at the international level, but his passion, skill, and determination are remembered by fans and fellow players alike. His contributions to Indian cricket, both on and off the field, will forever be cherished.
