'Felt my career was over'- Pakistan batter Abid Ali on his battle with heart disease

Abid Ali has represented Pakistan in 22 international games in the limited opportunities he has got so far. It was only at the age of 31 that Ali could make his debut at the highest level in March 2019 due to the cut-throat competition in the national team. However, there came a point in the Lahore cricketer’s life where a serious heart ailment almost ended his career.

Ali himself admitted he felt that his career was over as he recalled the serious heart disease that he had suffered during the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy 2021/22 in December. He also went on to express his gratitude towards, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) doctors, chairman Ramiz Raja, and NCA doctors for supporting him when he was not in the best of his health.

I never imagined such an incident could ever occur: Abid Ali

“The last 5-6 months, I have been in extreme discomfort, but I am back to normal routine thanks to Allah Almighty. The situation I was in, I never expected to be in this position,” said Abid Ali while speaking to Cricket Pakistan.

“I would like to thank the PCB and all those who supported me, especially Ramiz Raja and NCA doctors on the panel. Additionally, I am also thankful to have a great team who are working with me and helping me in the rehabilitation centre,” he added.

At the same time, the right-handed batter also went on to say he never imagined that such an incident could ever occur and when he faced this unforeseen situation, he felt as if his career was over. Furthermore, the 34-year-old added that he would remain positive and pray for a healthy and better life ahead.

While playing a match in the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy last December, Abid Ali complained of chest pains and was immediately rushed to the hospital where he was eventually diagnosed with acute coronary syndrome. Fortunately, the cricketer underwent a successful angioplasty.