Delhi: The famous swing bowling famous Abdul Ismail for Mumbai died of a heart attack in Mumbai on Friday. At the age of 79, he said goodbye to this world, but his dedication and contribution to cricket will always be remembered.

In his first class career, which started from 1969, Ismail led Mumbai fast bowling for a decade. He took 244 wickets in 75 first-class matches at an excellent average of 18.08. He was an integral part of the five teams winning the Ranji Trophy of Mumbai and also became the architect of victory in the Dalip Trophy for West Zone.

Abdul Ismail was one of the select cricketers who missed out on representing the Indian team, but the impact he left from his game at the domestic level was no less than an international player. His fast bowling trio with Karsan Ghavri and Eknath Solkar made Mumbai unbeatable in the 1970s.

Significantly, he was also a part of the first match played in Wankhede, which shows his important role in the history of this ground.

Ismail, who played his first and final first class match in the Iranian Cup, also maintained the game after retirement and also maintained the game as a coaching and selector. He contributed to the selection of teams of different age groups including Tarasha and Ranji Trophy to many young players of Mumbai.

Abdul Ismail may not be among us today, but his passion, discipline and selfless service towards cricket will always be inspired. The legacy he has given to Mumbai cricket will remain an example for generations to come.

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