Lahore, 3 Aug, 2023 (GNP): The cricketing world mourns the loss of former Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Ijaz Butt, who passed away at the age of 85 in Lahore on Thursday, following an extended illness.
Butt’s son, Arif Saeed confirmed the news of his father’s passing, stating that the former Test cricketer had been unwell for a considerable period.
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Ijaz Butt served as the PCB chairman from 2008 to 2011, a tenure marked by various changes in team management.
The PCB expressed its heartfelt condolences in a brief statement on its official Twitter account, acknowledging the passing of the esteemed former Test cricketer and ex-PCB chairman.
The PCB is saddened by the news of the passing of former Test cricketer and ex-PCB chairman Ijaz Butt. Our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. pic.twitter.com/EH0UuMBfhN
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) August 3, 2023
According to the detailed statement released later by the PCB, Ijaz Butt was born in Sialkot on 10 March 1938. He represented Pakistan in eight Test matches from 1959 to 1962, making significant contributions to the sport.
Under his chairmanship, the Pakistan cricket team achieved a momentous milestone, securing victory in the ICC T20 World Cup in 2009.
Zaka Ashraf, Chairperson of the PCB Management Committee, extended his deepest condolences on behalf of the PCB, reflecting on his personal connection with Mr. Ijaz Butt and expressing utmost respect for his legacy.
“He will always be remembered for the contributions he made to Pakistan cricket,” said Zaka Ashraf, assuring Butt’s family and friends that his impact on the sport would remain indelible.
During his playing days, cricket enthusiasts recognized Ijaz Butt as a skilled wicketkeeper-batter, as he made his Test debut as an opener against West Indies in 1958-59. In a memorable match, he scored an unbeaten 41 runs, leading Pakistan to a resounding 10-wicket victory.
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Throughout his career, Butt played against Australia twice and exhibited his batting prowess, achieving his only half-century at Karachi in December 1959. Overall, he amassed 279 runs in eight Tests with an average of 19.92 and participated in 67 first-class matches, scoring over 3,000 runs.
Ijaz Butt’s departure leaves an irreplaceable void in Pakistan cricket whereas, the cricketing world will forever cherish his contributions to the game.
