Seventy-seven years ago, the British colonial rule, which had spanned over two centuries, came to an end, leading to the division of India into two nations: India and Pakistan. This partition caused immense suffering, with families separated and many lives lost. Since then, the relationship between India and Pakistan has been characterized by a complex mix of love and hate, evident in various aspects of their interaction, including politics, culture, society, and sports. The 26/11 attacks and subsequent incidents in 2016 have further strained the cricketing ties between the two countries. Bilateral cricket series have been suspended since 2013, and the only opportunities for India and Pakistan to face each other are in continental or global tournaments. Despite the political tensions, cricket matches between these two nations remain highly anticipated and widely watched, a tradition that is likely to continue for generations.
Notably, only a handful of players have represented both India and Pakistan throughout history. While several cricketers have played for countries other than their own, the number is significantly lower for India and Pakistan due to various factors.
Amir Elahi played for both India and Pakistan
Amir Elahi was one of those cricketers who feature for both India and Pakistan. Amir Elahi was a remarkable cricketer who played Test matches for both India and Pakistan, an exceptional feat achieved by only fifteen players in history. He initially represented India against Australia in 1947, marking the beginning of his Test career. Over his career, he played a total of six Test matches, five of which were for Pakistan, including one against his former team, India. At the age of 44, he played his final Test match in Calcutta during Pakistan's first tour of India.
Before his Test debut, Elahi toured England with the Indian team in 1936, where he showcased his bowling skills by taking 17 wickets at an average of 42.94. However, his performance during the 1947-48 tour of Australia was less impressive, as he took only 8 wickets at an expensive average of 65.87.
Elahi had to move to Pakistan's after India's independence
Going to Pakistan after independence, Elahi joined the Pakistani cricket team and made a significant contribution to their success. He played a vital role in their tour of India in 1952–53, taking 13 wickets at an average of 38.76. Even before the formation of Pakistan, Amir Elahi was a prominent figure in Indian cricket. He claimed 193 wickets in the Ranji Trophy at an average of 24.72. One of his most memorable performances came against India in Madras (now Chennai), where he partnered with Zulfiqar Ahmed to score 104 runs for the last wicket, contributing 47 runs himself.
Amir Elahi passed away on December 28, 1980, at the age of 72 years and 118 days, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the world of cricket.
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