Majid Jahangir Khan was a Pakistani cricket player known for his grace, fluency, and elegance on the field. Born on September 28, 1946, in Ludhiana, India, Majid hailed from a cricketing family. His father, Jahangir Khan, was a renowned cricketer who famously hit a sparrow in flight at Lord’s. Majid, however, carved his own path and left a lasting impact on the sport through his stellar batting and occasional offspin bowling.
Majid, a Cambridge Blue, embodied the spirit of an English amateur from a bygone era. His playing style exuded a sense of effortlessness and a distant air that sometimes gave the impression that he wasn’t really trying. This unique approach garnered attention and captivated fans, making him a beloved figure in Pakistani cricket.
Initially, Majid began his career as a pace bowler. However, a persistent back injury and questions regarding the legitimacy of his bouncers forced him to transition into an occasional offspinner. Though this shift posed challenges, Majid’s undeniable talent with the bat propelled him up the batting order. His remarkable consistency and ability to effortlessly score runs at a rapid pace soon established him as a formidable opening batsman.
Teaming up with Sadiq Mohammad, Majid formed a highly successful opening partnership that posed a serious threat to opposing bowlers. His majestic drives and powerful hooks became his trademarks, delighting spectators with their sheer elegance. Majid’s batting prowess earned him respect and admiration from fellow cricketers and fans alike.
However, Majid’s cricketing career took a sour turn when his cousin, Imran Khan, was forced to drop him from the team. This decision strained their relationship, casting a shadow over years of camaraderie and shared experiences on and off the field. Despite the disappointment, Majid demonstrated resilience and continued to contribute to cricket in other capacities.
Off the field, Majid distinguished himself as a no-nonsense administrator. He took on various roles in cricket administration and played a significant part in shaping the sport in Pakistan. However, his tenure ended on a somber note when allegations of match-fixing during the 1999 World Cup emerged. Majid found himself embroiled in the controversy and was compelled to defend his integrity.
Beyond the controversies, Majid Jahangir Khan’s impact on Pakistani cricket remains undeniable. His elegant playing style and his contributions as a talented opening batsman gave him a storied career that will be remembered for generations to come. Although his relationship with his cousin faced challenges, Majid’s dedication to the sport and his outstanding performances continue to inspire young cricketers all over Pakistan and beyond.
