Mushtaq Mohammad, born on November 22, 1943, was a Pakistani cricketer hailing from a family deeply rooted in the sport. He was not only an exceptional batsman but also an impressive leg-break bowler. Mushtaq was not the most naturally gifted among his five brothers, who all played cricket, but he managed to surpass them in terms of first-class centuries and wickets taken.
Growing up in Karachi, Mushtaq and his family emigrated from Western India to Pakistan when he was still a child. His brothers, including cricketing legend Hanif Mohammad, played a significant role in shaping his passion and skills for the game. Mushtaq learned the art of reverse-sweeping, a stroke which he mastered thanks to Hanif’s guidance. He also became known for his unique bat-twirling technique at the crease, a style that became his trademark.
One of the key factors in Mushtaq’s success was the exposure he received in English county cricket. He spent several productive seasons playing for Northamptonshire, which allowed him greater opportunities to showcase his abilities. It was during this time that he demonstrated his proficiency as both a batsman and bowler.
As a batsman, Mushtaq proved himself as a consistent run-scorer. He accumulated a remarkable number of first-class centuries, surpassing even the illustrious record of his older brother Hanif. This achievement is a testament to his dedication and hard work in honing his batting skills.
Simultaneously, Mushtaq showcased his talent as a leg-break bowler. He had an impressive repertoire of deliveries, including the googly and flipper, which allowed him to deceive batsmen and take wickets consistently. His accuracy and ability to extract turn from the pitch made him a valuable asset for any team.
In recognition of his exceptional performances in county cricket, Northamptonshire paid Mushtaq to qualify for them by spending two years with the team. This opportunity allowed him to enhance his skills even further before making his presence known on the international stage.
Mushtaq made his Test debut for Pakistan in 1959 at the tender age of 15, claiming the title of the youngest Test centurymaker. However, there is some debate regarding his actual age at the time, as a couple of years may have been lost during the emigration process. Nevertheless, his performances on the field were always remarkable, making him a crucial player for the Pakistani team.
Throughout his cricketing career, Mushtaq was a trailblazer for various techniques and strategies in the game. He introduced the reverse-sweep to the world, a stroke that is now commonly employed by modern batsmen. Additionally, his ability to twirl his bat before facing a delivery added style and flair to his batting.
While Mushtaq Mohammad’s international cricket career may have spanned 17 years, his contributions to the game extended far beyond his playing days. He later served as the coach and selector for the Pakistani national team, sharing his wealth of knowledge and experience with the next generation.
Mushtaq Mohammad was a highly skillful cricketer who etched his name in the annals of the sport. His exceptional batting, precision bowling, and innovative techniques make him a true icon of Pakistani cricket. From his humble beginnings in Karachi to his successful stints in English county cricket, Mushtaq’s legacy continues to inspire young cricketers around the world.
