Zahir Alam passes away

Guwahati, May 30: Former Assam first class cricketer Zahir Iqbal Alam passed away in a Bangalore hospital this afternoon. He was 42 and suffering from a liver ailment.

A prolific batsman of the Assam Ranji team during his career from 1988 to 1995, Alam had played 22 first class matches and five one-day matches. He scored 1,398 runs in first class matches with an average of 36.78, which no Assam player has so far surpassed.

In limited overs matches, he scored 60 runs batting in four innings.

Alam also scripted a world record second-wicket partnership of 475 runs with former Test cap Lalchand Rajput against Tripura in a Ranji Trophy match in 1990-91. He scored his career best 257.

The Assam Cricket Association, Guwahati Sports Association, Gauhati Town Club, Bud Cricket Club, Guwahati Cricket Coaching Centre and several other sports organisations have condoled his death.

The ACA and GCCC have suspended all its activities as a mark of respect for the departed soul.