Mohammad Abbas levels Imran Khan’s record

Pakistan’s pacer Mohammad Abbas equaled the legendary Imran Khan's record of 13 ten-wicket hauls in first-class cricket on Thursday.

Abbas achieved the milestone during the fifth round of the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy (QEAT) 2024-25, where Lahore Blues were defeated by FATA Region, local sports tv reported.

The right-arm pacer put up an exceptional performance, taking six wickets for 39 runs in 22 overs, including 10 maidens, in the first innings.

He continued his dominance in the second innings, claiming four wickets for 35 runs, finishing with match figures of 10/74.

This achievement marked Abbas' 13th 10-wicket haul, placing him alongside some of Pakistan’s finest fast bowlers, including Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis.

With this performance, Abbas now shares third place on the all-time list for most 10-wicket hauls in first-class cricket in Pakistan, behind Waqar (14) and Wasim (16).

In addition to his record-equalling feat, Abbas has become the second-highest wicket-taker in the ongoing Quaid-e-Azam Trophy with 31 wickets at an impressive average of 14.39, coupled with a tight economy rate of 2.35. He has also bowled the highest number of maidens (60) in the tournament so far.

Abbas, who made his Test debut for Pakistan in 2017, quickly gained international recognition for his bowling skills.

His performances earned praise from renowned South African pacer Dale Steyn, who predicted he could become the world’s number one Test bowler following his 10-wicket haul against Australia in 2018.

However, Abbas’ form has since fluctuated, with his last Test appearance for Pakistan coming against the West Indies in August 2021, after struggling to replicate his earlier success.