From dusty streets to packed stadiums, Pakistan has produced some of the most iconic and unpredictable cricketing legends in the world. Since gaining Test status in 1952, the country has built a proud legacy filled with unforgettable moments and remarkable talent. In this list, we celebrate the Best Pakistani Cricketers whose skills, passion, and impact have left an enduring mark on the sport.
List of 10 Best Pakistani Cricketers in History
10. Fazal Mahmood
Fazal Mahmood was the pioneer of Pakistan’s fast bowling legacy. Born in Lahore in 1927, he was the shining star in Pakistan’s bowling unit during the 1950s, a period when the country was still finding its feet in international cricket. Fazal’s impact was immediate and significant. In 1952, during Pakistan’s maiden series against India, he was instrumental in securing their first Test victory. Two years later, he delivered another historic performance at The Oval, helping Pakistan defeat England in England a rare feat at the time.
Fazal Mahmood had a graceful run-up and sharp swing that troubled even the best batsmen. He played until 1962 and ended his career with numerous match-winning performances. His influence extended beyond the pitch; he became a mentor to younger players and a symbol of discipline and sportsmanship.
| Format | Matches | Wickets | Bowling Average | Best Bowling |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Test | 34 | 139 | 24.70 | 7/42 |
9. Younis Khan
Younis Khan stands among the Best Pakistani Cricketers for his consistency and leadership. For over 15 years, he carried the weight of Pakistan’s fragile batting lineup, especially in Test cricket. Known for his fighting spirit and incredible work ethic, Younis often rose to the occasion when the team needed him the most.
Younis was a technically sound batsman with a strong mental game. He is the only Pakistani to score a century in all 11 countries that have hosted Test matches. His performances in difficult situations made him a pillar of strength.
| Format | Matches | Runs | Batting Average | 100s |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Test | 90 | 7,589 | 51.97 | 24 |
| ODI | 265 | 7,249 | 31.24 | 7 |
8. Abdul Qadir
Abdul Qadir was a magician with the ball and one of the Best Pakistani Cricketers of the 1980s. He revived the art of leg-spin bowling with flair and unpredictability. His best performance came in 1987 against England, when he took 9 wickets for 56 runs in an innings — a record that still stands.
Qadir’s influence on leg-spin extended into future generations, mentoring spinners like Mushtaq Ahmed and Danish Kaneria.
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| Format | Matches | Wickets | Bowling Average | Best Bowling |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Test | 67 | 236 | 32.80 | 9/56 |
| ODI | 104 | 132 | 26.16 | 5/44 |
7. Inzamam-ul-Haq
Inzamam-ul-Haq was the batting backbone of Pakistan for over a decade. One of the Best Pakistani Cricketers to handle pressure situations, he rose to fame during the 1992 World Cup.
He was calm at the crease and could build an innings with grace. His consistency and match-winning knocks cemented his legacy as one of the greats.
| Format | Matches | Runs | Batting Average | 100s |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Test | 120 | 8,830 | 49.60 | 25 |
| ODI | 378 | 11,739 | 39.52 | 10 |
6. Zaheer Abbas
Zaheer Abbas, the “Asian Bradman,” was known for his elegant strokeplay. He was one of the Best Pakistani Cricketers of the 1970s, often dismantling bowling attacks with style.
He was the first Asian to score 100 first-class centuries and played a key role in transforming Pakistan’s batting mindset.
| Format | Matches | Runs | Batting Average | 100s |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Test | 78 | 5,062 | 44.79 | 12 |
| ODI | 62 | 2,572 | 47.62 | 7 |
5. Waqar Younis
Waqar Younis was the epitome of raw pace and reverse swing. Alongside Wasim Akram, he formed one of the deadliest fast-bowling partnerships in cricket history. As one of the B, his toe-crushing yorkers were feared by batsmen worldwide.
| Format | Matches | Wickets | Bowling Average | Best Bowling |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Test | 87 | 373 | 23.56 | 7/76 |
| ODI | 262 | 416 | 23.84 | 7/36 |
4. Javed Miandad
Javed Miandad was the street-smart genius of Pakistan cricket. Known for his unorthodox style and fearless mindset, he remains one of the Best Pakistani Cricketers ever.
He played crucial roles throughout his career and helped shape Pakistan’s World Cup victory in 1992.
| Format | Matches | Runs | Batting Average | 100s |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Test | 124 | 8,832 | 52.57 | 23 |
| ODI | 233 | 7,381 | 41.70 | 8 |
3. Hanif Mohammad
Hanif Mohammad, the original “Little Master,” was Pakistan’s first batting icon. His legendary 337 against the West Indies saved a Test and remains one of the longest innings in cricket history. Among the Best Pakistani Cricketers, Hanif laid the groundwork for the generations to come.
| Format | Matches | Runs | Batting Average | Highest Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Test | 55 | 3,915 | 43.98 | 337 |
2. Wasim Akram
Wasim Akram is not only one of the Best Pakistani Cricketers, but also one of the finest bowlers in the history of cricket. His ability to swing the ball at pace revolutionized fast bowling.
He was pivotal in Pakistan’s 1992 World Cup win and continues to inspire fast bowlers worldwide.
| Format | Matches | Wickets | Bowling Average | Best Bowling |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Test | 104 | 414 | 23.62 | 7/119 |
| ODI | 356 | 502 | 23.52 | 5/15 |
1. Imran Khan
Imran Khan tops the list of the Best Pakistani Cricketers in history. A complete all-rounder, visionary leader, and World Cup-winning captain, Imran transformed Pakistan into a cricketing powerhouse.
He mentored future legends and continues to be revered for his cricketing intellect and leadership.
| Format | Matches | Runs | Wickets | Batting Avg | Bowling Avg |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Test | 88 | 3,807 | 362 | 37.69 | 22.81 |
| ODI | 175 | 3,709 | 182 | 33.41 | 26.61 |
These Best Pakistani Cricketers have left an indelible mark on the game and continue to inspire future generations with their achievements and character.