Inzamam-ul-Haq: Profile of Pakistan’s Calm Middle-Order Batter
A profile of Inzamam-ul-Haq, the Pakistan batter who starred in the 1992 World Cup and later captained the side, with career highlights.
Inzamam-ul-Haq was one of Pakistan’s most dependable and elegant batters. A large, unhurried figure at the crease, he scored heavily across formats over more than a decade and later captained the national team.
Early life and rise
Born in Multan, Inzamam made his one-day international debut in 1991 and his Test debut in 1992. He became a household name at the 1992 World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, where he made a quick 60 from 37 balls in the semi-final against New Zealand at Auckland and then a useful contribution in the final as Pakistan won the title.
Playing style
Inzamam played with a calm, relaxed manner and had excellent timing, especially through the off side and over midwicket. He was considered a fine player of spin and an effective chaser in one-day cricket. His running between the wickets was often criticised, but his stroke-making and temperament were widely admired.
Career highlights
In 120 Tests he scored 8,830 runs at an average of about 49.6, including 25 centuries, as of the end of 2024. His highest score in the format, 329 against New Zealand at Lahore in 2002, was one of the great Test innings by a Pakistan batter. In one-day cricket he scored 11,739 runs in 378 matches.
He captained Pakistan from 2003 to 2007, leading the team through a period of change and including during a home series against India in 2004. He retired from international cricket after the 2007 World Cup.
Legacy
Inzamam is remembered as one of the finest batters Pakistan has produced and as a calm leader who guided a talented but sometimes unpredictable team. In later years he has worked in coaching and cricket administration.
Frequently asked questions
What was Inzamam-ul-Haq’s highest Test score?
He made 329 against New Zealand at Lahore in 2002.
How many Test runs did Inzamam-ul-Haq score?
He scored 8,830 runs in 120 Tests, as of the end of 2024.
What did Inzamam-ul-Haq do at the 1992 World Cup?
He hit a fast 60 in the semi-final against New Zealand, helping Pakistan reach the final, which they won.