Mohammad Younis Khan, a former Pakistani cricket captain, shines in all formats. Born on November 29, 1975, his mastery in Test cricket’s middle order is unparalleled.
Impressively, Khan scored centuries in every Test-playing nation, a feat unmatched in cricket history. His leadership brought Pakistan the 2009 World Twenty20 title, a monumental triumph.
Key Takeaways
Hide- Prolific Batsman: Younis Khan is the first Pakistani cricketer to score over 10,000 runs in Test cricket.
- Global Feat: He scored centuries in every Test-playing nation, a unique achievement in cricket.
- Captaincy Excellence: Led Pakistan to their first-ever World Twenty20 title in 2009 as captain.
- Retirement Journey: Announced retirement from international cricket in 2017 after a distinguished career.
- Coaching Stint: Briefly served as batting coach for Pakistan's national team in 2020.
- Honorary Accolades: Awarded the Pride of Performance in 2010 and the Sitara-i-Imtiaz in 2018 by the Presidents of Pakistan.
- Contract Controversy: Faced a demotion in his contract category by the Pakistan Cricket Board, which was later reversed due to public outcry.
Record-Breaker and Trailblazer
Younis Khan’s Test records are staggering. He boasts the highest number of runs and centuries for Pakistan. Notably, he’s the third Pakistani to surpass 300 runs in an inning.
His century-to-fifty conversion ratio exceeds 50%, showcasing his consistency and skill. Under his captaincy, Pakistan clinched their first World Twenty20 in 2009.
On April 23, 2017, he reached a monumental 10,000 Test runs, becoming the first Pakistani and one of the world’s elite to achieve this milestone.
Family Ties: Younis Khan’s Journey of Joy and Grief
Younis Khan, a celebrated cricketer, tied the knot with Amna on 30 March 2007. Their family blossomed with three children: Owais Khan, Ammarah Khan, and the youngest, Ammar Khan. Born on 26 December 2007, Owais holds the title of eldest son.
Family First: Younis Khan’s Priorities
Tragically, Younis faced heartbreaking losses in 2005 and 2006. He rushed back from Australia in 2005, grieving his father’s death.
Later, during England’s tour to Pakistan, a car accident in Ukraine claimed his brother Mohammed Sharif Khan’s life.
Sharif, 41, had introduced Younis to cricket. In December 2006, another devastating blow struck when his brother Farman Ali Khan died in a car accident in Germany at 39.
Younis’s commitment to family was evident again in May 2011. During a West Indies tour, he left early due to his elder brother Shamshad Khan’s death in Germany.
While playing against West Indies in Faisalabad, Younis received the shattering news of his brother’s demise.
Only after finishing his innings did he learn the tragic details. Immediately, he departed for Mardan, his hometown, and withdrew from the remaining series.
Loss and Legacy: Younis Khan’s Mentor and Guide
In March 2007, the death of Bob Woolmer deeply affected Younis. After losing his father, he viewed Woolmer, Pakistan’s cricket coach, as a paternal figure.
Younis shared a deep bond with him, often confiding personal thoughts and feelings. Off the pitch, Younis finds solace and enjoyment in fishing, a stark contrast to the fast-paced cricket world.
Younis Khan: A Masterstroke in Australian Cricket
In 2008-09, Younis Khan made a splash in Australian cricket. Joining the Southern Redbacks, he quickly proved his worth.
His century against the Queensland Bulls was a masterclass. It led the Redbacks to their first Shield win in a year, marking an unforgettable debut.
Younis Khan’s English Elegance: County Cricket Chronicles
Younis Khan’s journey in county cricket began in 2005 with Nottinghamshire. By 2007, he was playing for Yorkshire, following legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Yuvraj Singh.
Despite a rocky start, he dazzled in his one-day debut. His 100 off 92 balls against Nottinghamshire was a sight to behold. He continued to impress, scoring a century and a double century in the same match for Yorkshire.
His 217* against Kent remains a highlight of his tenure. After a spellbinding stint, he joined Surrey in 2010, further showcasing his versatility.
Younis Khan in the IPL: A Brief but Memorable Stint
Younis Khan’s venture into the IPL was brief yet noteworthy. In 2008, he joined the Rajasthan Royals for $225,000.
Although he played only one match, his presence was a testament to his global appeal. His single appearance, against Kings XI Punjab, was his sole IPL outing.
Younis Khan’s Pakistani Pride: Mentorship and Leadership
Younis Khan’s influence in Pakistani cricket goes beyond his playing days. As a mentor for Peshawar Zalmi, he contributed significantly in the 2017 and 2018 PSL seasons.
His decision to step down from United Bank Limited’s cricket team in 2018 marked the end of an era. Khan’s impact, both as a player and a mentor, remains indelible in the world of cricket.
International Career: Younis Khan’s Rise to Fame
Younis Khan burst onto the international cricket scene in 2000. His debut in One Day Internationals (ODIs) against Sri Lanka marked the beginning of a distinguished career.
Over time, he played more than 250 ODIs for Pakistan. His Test debut, also against Sri Lanka, showcased his versatility. Despite a shaky start, Younis cemented his place in Pakistan’s cricket history.
His return in 2004, against Sri Lanka in Karachi, marked a turning point. His pivotal role in the team’s resurgence was undeniable. Younis’s 267 against India remains a highlight, showcasing his batting prowess.
Captaincy and Challenges
Younis Khan’s captaincy journey had its ups and downs. He first led the ODI team in 2005, securing a series win against the West Indies.
Despite initial reluctance, he accepted the captaincy for the 2006 ICC Champions Trophy. However, the team’s performance under his leadership was mixed. Post the 2007 Cricket World Cup, Younis declined the permanent captaincy.
Nevertheless, he led Pakistan to victory in the ICC World Twenty20. His tenure as captain ended in 2009 amidst controversy, although he was cleared of any wrongdoing.
Legacy and Records
Younis Khan’s career is marked by numerous achievements and records. In 2008, the ICC named him in the World ODI XI. He topped the ICC’s Test Batting Rankings in 2009, a testament to his skill.
Younis’s 313 against Sri Lanka was a career-defining innings. He also excelled as a slip fielder and occasional leg-spin bowler. His international career statistics reflect his impact on the game.
Despite challenges post-captaincy, including a temporary ban, Younis’s return was triumphant. His performance in Test cricket, particularly against South Africa, solidified his legacy.
| Milestone | Achievement |
|---|---|
| Pioneer in Runs | First Pakistani with over 10,000 runs in Test cricket. |
| Elite Club Member | Became the third Pakistani to surpass 8,500 Test runs. |
| Century King | Holds the record for most Test centuries (34) by a Pakistani. |
| Fourth-Innings Maestro | First ever to score five centuries in Test cricket’s fourth innings. |
| Dynamic Duo | Alongside Misbah-ul-Haq, holds record for most partnership runs in Tests for Pakistan. |
| Double Century Delight | Boasts six double centuries in Test matches. |
| Triple Century Triumph | Scored a monumental 313 against Sri Lanka, becoming the third Pakistani with a triple century in Tests. |
| Globetrotting Centurion | Only Pakistani to score a Test hundred against all nine Test nations. |
| Speedy Scorer | 5th fastest to reach 7,500 Test runs, achieving this in 90 matches. |
| Away Game Ace | Holds the record for most away centuries (23) by a Pakistani. |
| Catching Maestro | First Pakistani cricketer with 100 catches in Test matches. |
| Number 3 Titan | Amassed over 4,000 runs at number 3 in Tests, a Pakistani record. |
| Age-Defying Centurion | Most centuries (14) after age 35 among Pakistani players. |
| Aussie Conqueror | Scored three consecutive Test centuries against Australia, a feat matched only by Herbert Sutcliffe. |
| Century Partnership Pro | Involved in 63 hundred-run partnerships in Tests, equalling Kumar Sangakkara and surpassing Brian Lara. |
The Ups and Downs in Contracts
Younis Khan faced a startling demotion by the Pakistan Cricket Board, moving from an A to a B category contract. This decision sparked widespread outrage among fans, media, and cricket experts.
Many argued that a player of Younis’ caliber deserved better treatment. Under public pressure, the Board eventually reinstated him to the A category, acknowledging his invaluable contribution to the sport.
Younis Khan’s Retirement Rollercoaster
In 2009, after leading Pakistan to a T20I World Cup victory, Younis Khan made a surprising announcement. He declared his retirement from Twenty20 internationals, citing his age of 31 as a factor.
However, he later reconsidered, expressing willingness to continue in T20 cricket as a senior batsman. In 2015, Younis announced his retirement from one-day internationals.
His departure, along with Test captain Misbah-ul-Haq, marked an end of an era for Pakistani cricket.
Despite initial retirement plans, Younis stayed open to extending his career, finally confirming his retirement after the West Indies tour in 2017.
Coaching and Recognition
Post-retirement, Younis Khan’s expertise remained in high demand. In 2017, he was approached to coach the Afghanistan national cricket team, a role he later declined.
He almost joined Pakistan’s Under-19 as a coach but disagreements over role specifics and finances halted the deal. The Pakistan Cricket Board, recognizing his talent, appointed him as their batting coach in 2020.
However, this partnership ended after a brief stint. Not just in coaching, Younis also shined in receiving accolades.
In 2010 and 2018, he was honored with the Pride of Performance and the Sitara-i-Imtiaz by the Presidents of Pakistan, underscoring his monumental impact on the sport.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are some of Younis Khan's notable achievements in international cricket?
Younis Khan is renowned for his mastery in Test cricket, being the first Pakistani to score over 10,000 Test runs. He also holds the record for the most Test centuries by a Pakistani player. Additionally, Younis is the only Pakistani to score a Test hundred against all nine Test nations.
How did Younis Khan's captaincy impact Pakistan cricket?
Under Younis Khan’s captaincy, Pakistan clinched their first World Twenty20 title in 2009. His leadership skills and strategic acumen played a pivotal role in elevating Pakistan’s standing in international cricket, especially in the T20 format.
Did Younis Khan pursue a career in coaching after retirement?
Yes, after retiring from international cricket, Younis Khan transitioned into coaching. He was offered the role of coach for the Afghanistan national cricket team in 2017 but declined. Later, he served as the batting coach for Pakistan’s national team during their tour to England in 2020.
