Sadiq Mohammad, the youngest member of the renowned Mohammad cricketing family, was born on December 15, 1945, in Karachi, Pakistan. Coming from a family that had already produced two cricketing legends in Hanif Mohammad and Mushtaq Mohammad, Sadiq had enormous shoes to fill, and he did not disappoint.
Growing up in a household filled with cricketing discussions and talents, Sadiq developed a deep love for the sport. Being the only left-hander among his brothers’ right-handed batting style, he was encouraged to cultivate his uniqueness and further enhance his skills. This led him to become a formidable player, particularly known for his strong off-side shots and his wristy play.
Sadiq’s prowess with the bat was evident from an early age, displaying a natural talent and technique that made him stand out. He possessed a remarkable ability to tackle fast bowlers, often fearlessly taking them on with his powerful pulls. His strong footwork and impeccable timing resulted in consistent runs against some of the toughest opponents in the world of cricket.
While some critics believed that Sadiq had gained his place in the team solely due to his family connections, his performances on the field silenced those doubts. As an opener during a challenging period in Pakistan cricket, Sadiq showcased his resilience and determination, establishing himself as a dependable and impactful player.
Sadiq’s international career spanned from 1969 to 1981, during which he played 41 Test matches for Pakistan. With an impressive batting average of 41.56, he amassed a total of 2,781 runs, including five centuries and 13 half-centuries. His splendid knock of 166 against England in 1978 remains one of his most memorable innings, where he showcased his ability to dominate even the best bowling attacks.
Apart from his Test success, Sadiq also performed admirably in One Day Internationals (ODIs). Playing a total of 19 matches, he accumulated 329 runs, featuring two half-centuries. While his ODI career may not have been as extensive as his Test career, his contributions were invaluable in shaping Pakistan’s limited-overs cricket during that era.
Sadiq’s dedication and passion for the game extended beyond his days as a player. After retiring from international cricket, he continued to contribute to the sport as a coach and mentor. His expertise and guidance provided younger generations of players with valuable insights and techniques, helping them reach their full potential.
Sadiq’s lasting impact on Pakistani cricket has been duly recognized and appreciated. In 2013, he received the prestigious Pride of Performance Award from the Government of Pakistan in acknowledgment of his immense contributions to the sport and his service as an ambassador for cricket.
As an integral member of the illustrious Mohammad family, Sadiq Mohammad proved himself to be a talented and determined cricketer who showcased exceptional skills on the field. He remains a cherished figure in Pakistani cricket, revered for his significant contributions to the game and his everlasting legacy as one of the finest left-handed batsmen to emerge from the nation.
