![PCB mourns Mohammad Ilyas' death [Source: @SAMAATV/X.com]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1768221584396_MohammadIlyasformerPakistancricketerpassesaway.jpg?type=hq)
PCB mourns Mohammad Ilyas' death [Source: @SAMAATV/X.com]
The PCB has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former Pakistan Test cricketer and chief selector Mohammad Ilyas. He died in Lahore on Monday after a long battle with cancer. Ilyas was 79.
His death has saddened the cricketing community across the country. A respected name in Pakistan cricket, Ilyas served the game both as a player and an administrator.
PCB pays tribute to a loyal servant of Pakistan cricket
In an official statement, the PCB confirmed the passing of Mohammad Ilyas and described him as a dedicated servant of the game.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi offered heartfelt sympathies to his family and prayed for strength for them in this difficult time. He also praised Ilyas for his valuable contribution to Pakistan cricket.
It was reported that Mohammad Ilyas had been under treatment at a private hospital in Lahore for cancer. A few days before his death, he had requested support from the PCB for his medical treatment.
The timings of his funeral will be announced by the family soon. Many former players, officials and fans have shared messages of condolence, remembering him as a humble and sincere individual.
Mohammad Ilyas’ solid career in Test and first-class cricket
In December 1964, Mohammad Ilyas made his Test debut for Pakistan against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. He played 10 Test matches for Pakistan between 1964 and 1969.
Though his international career was short, he made an indelible mark. His finest moment was arguably in 1965 during a home series against New Zealand.
Opening the batting in Karachi, Ilyas scored a brilliant 126 to help Pakistan chase down 202 runs and win the match. It remains one of the memorable fourth-innings knocks in Pakistan’s early Test history.
In first-class cricket, he was even more consistent. Ilyas played 82 first-class matches and scored 4607 runs with 12 centuries. He also bowled leg-spin and picked up 53 wickets in first-class cricket.
Ilyas toured Australia again in 1972-73 but was forced to return early due to injury. After retiring from active cricket, he remained connected with the game in different roles.
Mohammad Ilyas also served as chief selector
After retirement, Mohammad Ilyas later served Pakistan cricket as a selector and was appointed chief selector in 2011. However, his stint ended in controversy as PCB sacked him for breaking the code of conduct.
He had publicly criticised the then captain Shahid Afridi and appeared on a TV show alongside Salman Butt, who was banned for spot-fixing.
Since ICC rules do not allow officials to associate with banned players, the PCB took action and suspended him after his explanation failed to satisfy the board.
In his final days, Mohammad Ilyas remained hopeful and asked friends and well-wishers to pray for his recovery.
