Zakirullah Khan, a formidable cricketer from Pakistan, etched his name in the annals of cricket history with his extraordinary skills as a right-arm seamer. Towering over his opponents, he possessed an imposing build that made him a daunting presence on the cricket field.
Born and raised in Pakistan, Zakirullah Khan developed a passion for cricket from a young age. His dedication and perseverance allowed him to thrive in the sport, leading to his surprise selection for the Pakistan national team’s tour of Sri Lanka in 1985-86. Despite the unexpected call-up, Zakirullah made an immediate impact on his debut, taking an impressive 3 for 80 in the opening match at Colombo. Although he couldn’t replicate his success in the second innings, conceding 70 runs, his performance showcased his potential as a valuable asset for the team.
While Zakirullah’s Test career may not have lived up to the expectations set by his debut, he proved himself to be a handy player in the limited-overs format. With a distinctive batting style, he often provided crucial runs towards the end of an innings, contributing significantly to his team’s success. It was this versatility that allowed him to secure a place in the Pakistani one-day side, although he faced intermittent appearances throughout his career.
His second Test appearance came unexpectedly during a match against India in Sialkot in 1989-90. Unfortunately, Zakirullah failed to make a substantial impact during this game, as he struggled to leave a lasting impression on the field. Nevertheless, his contributions in other aspects of the game and his relentless commitment to the sport will always be remembered.
Following his retirement from professional cricket in 1992, Zakirullah Khan continued to contribute to the world of cricket. He transitioned into the administrative side of the sport, working closely with the Pakistan Cricket Board. Initially, he took on the role of media manager, utilizing his experience as a player to enhance the communication and media relations of the board. Later, Zakirullah went on to become the secretary of the Pakistan Cricket Board, where he played a crucial role in coordinating and managing various cricketing affairs.
Zakirullah Khan’s career may have been brief, but his impact on the cricket field was significant. His surprising selection for the national team and subsequent performances demonstrated his undeniable talent as a right-arm seamer, capable of troubling even the best batsmen. While his Test career may not have reached the heights expected, his contributions in the limited-overs format, especially with the bat, established him as a crucial player for Pakistan. Post-retirement, he continued his association with cricket, dedicating his efforts to the administrative side of the sport. Zakirullah Khan’s dedication and commitment to cricket serve as an inspiration to aspiring cricketers, reminding them that hard work and determination can pave the way for success in any endeavor.