Tendulkar leads Indian cricket fraternity in mourning death of Abdul Qadir

Batting great Sachin Tendulkar led the Indian cricket fraternity's tribute for Pakistan spin legend Abdul Qadir, who died in Lahore after suffering a cardiac arrest.

Qadir, who would have turned 64 on September 15, passed away on Friday before he could be brought to a hospital.

Tendulkar, who as a 16-year-old had played many attacking shots against Qadir during an exhibition match, described him as one of the best spinners of his times.

"Remember playing against Abdul Qadir, one of the best spinners of his times. My heartfelt condolences to his family. RIP," Tendulkar wrote on his twitter handle.

Ace India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin also took to twitter to express his grief at Qadir's demise.

"Extremely saddened by the demise of Abdul Qadir the spin bowling stalwart from Pakistan. My heart goes out to his family and friends. #RIP," Ashwin tweeted.

Harbhajan too expressed his shock at the death of the legendary spinner.

"Shocked to hear Abdul Qadir passed away. Met him two years back he was full of energy as always ... A champion bowler, great human being, you will be missed forever ... condolences to the family #RIPabdulqadir," he tweeted.

In his condolence message, former India batsman VVS Laxman said was always mesmerised by Qadir's unique bowling style.

"Sad to hear about the demise of Abdul Qadir. Was always mesmerised by his unique style of bowling and he was one of the best leg-spinners to play the game. Heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones."