Muhammad Abbas is a right-arm medium-fast bowler and right-handed batter.
He was born in Sialkot, Punjab and has represented Pakistan at both Test and ODI level.
Abbas has quickly become one of the world’s best Test bowlers since making his international debut in 2017, with 90 wickets to his name at an exceptional average of 23.02 in just 25 appearances. He rose to third in the ICC Test Bowling Rankings in October 2018 and currently sits 20th.
After impressing Pakistan’s national selectors through sustained domestic success in 2015 and 2016, Abbas burst onto the international scene four years ago, claiming his maiden Test wicket two deliveries into his debut against West Indies, before going on to record his first five-wicket haul in just his third Test appearance.
An incredible 2018 saw the right-armer continue his meteoric rise, claiming 50 Test wickets in his first 10 Tests – becoming the fastest pace bowler to reach 50 Test wickets for Pakistan – as he was named PCB Test Player of the Year.
Further success followed in 2019 with Abbas continuing to be an integral part of Pakistan’s attack during series against South Africa, Australia and Sri Lanka, before featuring in all three behind-closed-doors Tests during their tour of England in 2020.
Abbas was first introduced to English domestic cricket throughout two seasons at Leicestershire in 2018 and 2019, where he showcased his ability to lead the Foxes’ attack. He returned 79 wickets at an average of just 20.67 – including five five-wicket hauls – in 19 County Championship fixtures with the side.
The overseas international first joined the Club in 2021. In his ten County Championship matches, Abbas took 41 wickets at an average of 15.87. He also produced five-wicket hauls on three occasions throughout the season - including his season's best figures of 6/11 against Middlesex.
He then returned to The Ageas Bowl in 2022 and was once again impressive with the ball – this time taking 50 wickets at an average of 17.62 with an economy rate of just 2.35. He combined with Kyle Abbott and Keith Barker to form a trio which took over 150 wickets in the County Championship.
Most recently, Abbas signed a new two-year deal to keep him at Hampshire until at least the end of the 2024 season.
More:
