Ex-test cricketer and chief selector Mohammad Ilyas dies at 79

Web Desk: Ex-Test cricketer and chief selector Mohammad Ilyas passed away at the age of 79 after fighting a prolonged illness, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) said on Monday.

Ilyas, a right-hand batter and right-arm leg-spin bowler, played 10 Test matches along with 82 first-class and two List-A games between 1961 and 1976, PCB said in a statement as it expressed its grief following Ilyas’s passing.

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi also extended his heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the bereaved family, while also paying homage to the late Ilyas for his valuable services to the game of cricket in Pakistan.

The Pakistan Cricket Board expresses deep sorrow on the passing of former Test cricketer and Chief Selector Mohammad Ilyas.

He represented Pakistan in 10 Test matches and later served on various PCB selection committees, including leading the Women’s Cricket selection panel.… pic.twitter.com/s4tECW548d

— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) January 12, 2026

Ilyas made his Test debut against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on December 4, 1964 and played his last Test match against England at Dhaka from February 28 to March 3, 1969, according to the national board.