Ghulam Ahmed Biography: Life Story, Career, Records, Family & Achievements
Introduction
Ghulam Ahmed was a former Indian cricketer and off-spin bowler who represented India in the 1940s and 1950s. Known for his classical off-spin bowling, accuracy, and ability to bowl long spells, he played a crucial role for India during its formative years in Test cricket. Apart from being a player, he was also a respected administrator who later served as the Secretary of the BCCI and manager of the Indian team.
Personal Information
- Full Name: Ghulam Ahmed
- Date of Birth: 22 July 1922
- Birthplace: Hyderabad, British India
- Died: 28 October 1998 (aged 76), Hyderabad, India
- Nationality: Indian
- Zodiac Sign: Cancer
Physical Appearance
- Height: 6 feet (183 cm)
- Weight: Approx. 75 kg
- Hair Color: Black (later grey)
- Eye Color: Dark Brown
Early Life & Family Background
Ghulam Ahmed hailed from Hyderabad and developed his cricketing skills in the region’s strong domestic cricket culture. He went on to become one of the finest cricketers to emerge from Hyderabad during the pre- and post-independence era. Notably, he was the uncle of Bollywood superstar Azharuddin’s first wife Naureen, making him connected to another Indian captain, Mohammad Azharuddin.
Domestic Career
- Represented Hyderabad in domestic cricket.
- His consistent performances in the Ranji Trophy earned him a spot in the national team.
- Known as one of the leading spinners of his time in Indian domestic cricket.
International Career
Debut Matches
- Test Debut: 22 December 1948 vs West Indies (Kolkata).
Career Highlights
- Played 22 Test matches for India between 1948 and 1958.
- Took 68 Test wickets at an average of 30.17.
- Best bowling figures: 7/49 against West Indies (1952 Kolkata Test).
- Served as India’s Test captain in 3 matches (1955–56).
- Regarded as one of India’s premier off-spinners of the 1950s.
Records & Achievements
- Took 7/49 vs West Indies, one of the best bowling figures for India at the time.
- Captained India in Test cricket before players like Vinoo Mankad and Polly Umrigar.
- Known for his discipline, control, and ability to bowl marathon spells.
Administration Career
- Served as the Secretary of the BCCI.
- Managed the Indian cricket team during overseas tours.
- Contributed significantly to cricket administration and development in India.
Personal Life
Ghulam Ahmed maintained a close association with Hyderabad cricket and was respected both as a player and administrator. His extended family links connected him to another Indian captain, Mohammad Azharuddin.
Legacy
Ghulam Ahmed is remembered as a pioneer of Indian spin bowling in the early years of Test cricket and as a respected cricket administrator post-retirement. His legacy is carried forward not only through his achievements on the field but also through his contributions to Indian cricket governance.
FAQs
Q1: What was Ghulam Ahmed famous for?
He was famous as a classical off-spinner and one of India’s premier bowlers in the 1950s.
Q2: How many wickets did Ghulam Ahmed take in Tests?
He took 68 Test wickets in 22 matches.
Q3: Did Ghulam Ahmed ever captain India?
Yes, he captained India in 3 Test matches between 1955 and 1956.
Q4: What were his best bowling figures?
His best Test bowling figures were 7/49 vs West Indies (1952, Kolkata).
Q5: What did Ghulam Ahmed do after retirement?
He served as the Secretary of the BCCI and as a team manager, contributing to Indian cricket administration.
