The cricketing fraternity in Pakistan is mourning the sudden passing of Mian Fayyaz Ahmed, a former First-Class cricketer and respected coach, who died of cardiac arrest in Rawalpindi at the age of 67.
Fayyaz Ahmed enjoyed a distinguished 13-year First-Class career as a crafty off-spinner, representing teams such as the Lahore City Cricket Association (LCCA), Multan Cricket Association, Pakistan Automobile Corporation (PACO), the Governor’s XI, and the Pakistan Invitational XI. In 64 First-Class matches, he claimed 191 wickets, with his best figures being an impressive 6 for 26.
During his playing days, he shared the field with some of Pakistan’s greatest cricketing icons, including Javed Miandad, Abdul Qadir, and Wasim Akram. After retirement, he devoted himself to coaching at colleges and academies, nurturing young talent while also contributing as a cricket commentator, earning respect for his sharp insights into the game.
His passing has prompted tributes from across the globe. Former captains Mushtaq Mohammad (Birmingham) and Golden Arm Mudassar Nazar (Nairobi), alongside cricket writer Saleem Parvez (London), expressed their condolences. Messages also poured in from political and sporting figures such as Sohail Zia Butt (PML-N, Model Town), Azam Khan (PIA Karachi), Afzal Butt (New York), and Basit Butt (Manchester). From departmental cricket, opener Former Captain Punjab Police Cricket Team Nadeem Javed Butt and Former Press Secretary Punjab Police Cricket Team Sohail Javed Butt Secretary Pioneer Cricket Club Minto Parks also paid tribute, recalling his contributions to departmental cricket.
Hundreds of cricketers, organizers, and admirers have offered prayers for the departed soul, asking Allah (SWT) to grant him the highest rank in Jannah and to give strength to his grieving family.