Former Indian all-rounder Syed Abid Ali, known for his exceptional fielding capabilities and adept medium-pace bowling, passed away on March 12th at the age of 83. His journey through cricket, which spanned from 1967 to 1975 as a representative of India, left an indelible mark not only on the national team but also on the cricketing landscape in Northern California. Abid Ali’s remarkable contributions to the Northern California Cricket Association (NCCA) were key in developing the sport in a region where cricket had yet to take firm root.
After retiring from the international scene, Abid Ali, affectionately referred to as “Abid Bhai,” made Northern California his home. His passion for the game led him to continue actively participating in the NCCA’s A-division cricket, where he quickly became a vital figure in promoting and nurturing cricketing talent. His unwavering dedication went beyond personal accolades, as he devoted himself to coaching and mentoring young cricketers. Many would attest that his efforts played a significant role in elevating Northern California’s cricketing standards, helping it emerge as one of the stronger hubs for the sport in the United States.
Despite the accolades and recognition he received for his international exploits, Abid Ali remained remarkably humble throughout his life. He stayed engaged in local league cricket throughout the 1980s and 1990s, demonstrating a commitment to the grassroots of the sport. His coaching philosophy was deeply player-centric; he was renowned for his ability to connect with young athletes and impart his knowledge. Coaches often talk about the importance of not just teaching skills but also instilling confidence and understanding in players—Abid was a master at this. He would explain the reasons behind technical adjustments, seamlessly blending instruction with the player’s natural instincts, allowing them to thrive on the field.
Abid Ali’s cricketing prowess was certainly evident in his stats. He scored an impressive 70 runs in the 1975 Cricket World Cup and played a pivotal role in many notable matches. His Test debut against Australia in 1967 is particularly remembered for his outstanding bowling performance, where he achieved figures of 6/55—an achievement that left cricket fans and experts alike in awe. But his dedication to cricket didn’t just end when the final whistle blew on his playing days. Maintaining an active presence in the sport, he coached the NCCA men’s team multiple times, playing a pivotal role in shaping future cricketing talent such as Ozair Nana, Sunny Singh, Deep Ghai, and Krishna Prasad.
The joy of cricket was intrinsic to Abid Ali. He had a knack for lifting spirits, infusing warmth and humor into every interaction, whether it was through a light-hearted comment or a profound lesson in discipline. His character didn’t just resonate within the defined boundaries of cricket; it transcended them. He formed close bonds with fellow cricketers, becoming part of their families and lives. One such connection was his friendship with Syed Kirmani, India’s World Cup-winning wicketkeeper; their families even intertwined when Abid’s son, Faaqer, married Kirmani’s daughter.
However, life dealt Abid a severe blow with the unexpected passing of his son on the cricket field—a tragedy that rocked his world and left an undeniable void. Despite this heartbreak, he continued to inspire young cricketers, insisting on fairness and hard work above all and teaching them the value of mental fortitude. His mantra, “Come prepared to play and leave your excuses at home,” spoke volumes about the mindset he cultivated among his students.
As the news of his passing reverberates through the cricketing community, tributes poured in, underscoring the influential role he played in the lives of so many. Sunny Singh’s emotional tribute encapsulated the sentiment best—“Sir Abid Ali wasn’t just a coach—he was a mentor, a father figure, and a no-nonsense leader.” His home was a haven for aspiring cricketers, a place where merit ruled and everyone felt welcomed. In response to the memory of his unwavering standards, Singh recollected the day Abid picked his own son as the 12th man, emphasizing discipline and integrity above personal attachment.
Others, like Hasu Patel and Ozair Nana, echoed similar sentiments of gratitude and respect. They recalled the very first moments they met Abid—each real-life experience weaving a pattern of respect, friendship, and love for the game. They shared memories of how he meticulously coached and guided them through the challenges of cricket and life, further solidifying Abid Ali’s legacy as more than just a talented cricketer; he was a friend, a mentor, and a beacon of positivity.
Today, as the cricketing world pays tribute to Syed Abid Ali, it is essential to remember that his legacy lives on in every young cricketer he inspired and in every intricate moment of coaching he imparted. Northern California and the global cricketing community have indeed lost a remarkable ambassador for the sport. His commitment, humility, and passion for cricket will continue to resonate with future generations, ensuring that his memory and influence endure long after his time among us.I first crossed paths with Abid Uncle during my teenage years in the early 1990s. Even in his fifties, he was a force to be reckoned with on the cricket field, effortlessly opening the batting and keeping wickets at the historic United Ground in Richmond. I didn’t realize at the time that I was sharing the field with THE Abid Ali—the man who had been one of my mother’s cherished cricketing heroes in her youth. It was a surprise to learn that he began his illustrious career as a wicketkeeper.
Over the years, I had the privilege of getting to know him pretty well. Our interactions ranged from cricketing battles on the field to shared responsibilities as selectors and even moments spent coaching together at the Stanford Cricket Academy. Not to mention our attempts at collaborating on his autobiography, which, regrettably, never saw the light of day. We playfully toyed with titles, settling on ‘Running Between Wickets’ for the serious draft, while ‘Thunder Thighs’ also brought much laughter. His stories from the vibrant cricket scene of the ‘60s and ‘70s, filled with colorful anecdotes of his life and attempts to win over his future wife, were gems waiting to be shared.
Abid Uncle wasn’t just a great player; he was likely India’s first exceptional fielder. His record speaks volumes, with memorable matches against Australia where he achieved both five-wicket hauls and half-centuries. As a coach, he had this extraordinary knack for spotting issues in an instant. I remember one practice when I had lost my outswinger; within three balls, he made just two slight adjustments in my delivery stride, and just like that, I was back on my game. Countless others shared similar moments of revelation under his guidance.
However, life threw its share of challenges Abid Uncle’s way. Had he entered the cricket scene two decades later, he would undoubtedly have flourished as a top utility all-rounder in the limited-overs format and possibly been a sought-after coach in the T20 arena. The struggles of the housing crisis impacted him deeply, but nothing could compare to the excruciating heartache of losing his son, Faaqer. There are simply no words to convey that level of sorrow.
His former teammates at Stanford CC hold fond memories of him as a true gentleman, always exuding kindness—unless, of course, it came to misfielding, dropping catches, or ineffective running between wickets. Those were topics he was uncompromising on, reflecting his commitment to excellence.
Rest in peace, Abid Uncle. You touched so many lives and have left behind an enduring legacy. It was an honor to have crossed paths with you.
When it was announced that Mr. Syed Abid Ali had passed, a wave of sadness swept over us. To many, Abid Sir was more than just a brilliant talent on the cricket field; he was an inspiration whose skills and passion turned countless fans and budding cricketers into lifelong enthusiasts during the 1960s and 70s. He truly embodied what it meant to be an ambassador for the sport. His contributions, whether against fierce opponents or alongside cherished teammates, left an unmistakable footprint on the game we all love.
Beyond his achievements as a player, Abid Sir was a remarkable coach and a cherished friend. His sportsmanship, humility, and the warmth with which he shared wisdom and stories were nothing short of exceptional. Even though he may be physically gone, his influence will transcend generations. He will be missed dearly by the cricketing community, from local leagues in California to fans around the globe. Our deepest sympathies go out to his family and friends—those who had the honor of knowing him. May he find peace.
Reflecting on my personal experiences, I first met Abid Sir in 1980 when he took on the role of coach at Stanford Cricket Club. He wasn’t just any coach; he was a qualified mentor with a profound understanding of every crucial aspect of cricket. Abid didn’t merely instruct us about skills; he inspired each of us to give our very best, both in practice and during matches. He had this unique ability to connect with players on an emotional level, which fostered trust and camaraderie within the team.
His communication was clear, and he welcomed feedback, encouraging us to share our thoughts. After every match, he took the time to analyze in detail what went right and where we faltered. He had an incredible talent for pinpointing our strengths, weaknesses, and areas that required improvement. His enthusiasm for the game was contagious, and his unwavering dedication to our team was nothing short of remarkable. I vividly remember him traveling to Portland in 2001 to conduct coaching camps for players in the Oregon-based Northwest Cricket League.
During road trips to matches across the Bay Area, in places such as Santa Rosa and Fresno, he would captivate us with lively stories about his experiences in Test matches, often weaving in humor about other famous cricketers.
Though Abid Sir may not be with us physically anymore, his zest for life and love for cricket will always resonate in our hearts. Rest easy, dear coach. You’ve truly made a difference in this world and in the lives of everyone lucky enough to call you a friend.
Growing up watching the great game of cricket and then getting the chance to meet the legendary Abid Sir in California was an experience I’ll cherish forever. It took me quite a while to drop the formalities and simply call him Abid, reflecting his down-to-earth nature. He had such a humble demeanor matched only by his immense passion for the sport and commitment to nurturing cricket’s growth in Northern California. I was lucky enough to work closely with him and witness his dedication to developing both senior and junior teams within the NCCA. His absence will be felt deeply.
Image Source: Cricket King Zohaib @ YouTube
