Intikhab Alam Khan, widely known as Intikhab Alam, is a legendary figure in the world of cricket and a proud representative of Pakistan. Born on December 28, 1941, in Lahore, Pakistan, Intikhab is celebrated as one of the players who propelled Pakistan to become a dominant force in international cricket during the 1970s.
Intikhab’s cricket journey began in the late 1960s, a time when Pakistan was seeking ways to revitalize their performance on the field. He played a pivotal role in bridging the gap between the dull, defensive cricket of the 1960s and the dynamic, aggressive style that came to define the ’70s. Intikhab honed his skills by venturing into county cricket, joining Surrey as an exceptional allrounder. While his legspin may not have reached the heights of his contemporary Abdul Qadir, it remained formidable and laid the foundation for Pakistan’s unbeaten tour of England in 1974. Notably, his powerful batting skills also saw him score a Test hundred, further solidifying his reputation as a reliable allrounder.
Apart from his remarkable playing skills, Intikhab Alam was an influential captain during his time. However, some critics believed he was too diplomatic for the captaincy role. Eventually, Intikhab was replaced by the vibrant and proactive Mushtaq Mohammad. Despite stepping down from the captaincy, Intikhab’s impact on Pakistan cricket did not wane.
Following his retirement as a player, Intikhab continued to contribute to the development of Pakistan cricket. His involvement as the manager-coach during the 1992 World Cup showcased his adeptness in leadership and diplomacy. It is widely believed that his role was instrumental in fostering a harmonious working relationship between the captain, Imran Khan, and the talented batsman Javed Miandad, ultimately leading to Pakistan’s memorable World Cup triumph.
Intikhab’s dedication and passion for Pakistan cricket were further acknowledged when he assumed the role of coach in 2000. Though his tenure was relatively short, he left a lasting impact on the team and its players. Surprisingly, in October 2008, Pakistan once again turned to Intikhab Alam, appointing him as the coach in place of Geoff Lawson. This unexpected return showcased the immense respect and trust that the Pakistan Cricket Board placed in Intikhab’s abilities and experience.
Intikhab Alam Khan’s legacy in cricket extends beyond his playing days. His contributions as a player, captain, and coach have left an indelible mark on the development and success of Pakistan cricket. Intikhab’s diplomatic skills, leadership qualities, and dedication to the sport have earned him immense respect and admiration from cricket aficionados worldwide. His journey stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment to the game and his country, making Intikhab Alam Khan an iconic figure in the history of Pakistani cricket.