Waqar Hasan, member of Pakistan's first Test tour to India, dead

Waqar Hasan, the last surviving member of Pakistan's first Test side that toured India in 1952, died here on Monday.

Waqar featured in the Pakistan team that played its first-ever Test series in India in 1952 and also on the England and West Indies tours of 1954 and 55/56.

He played in the Tests that Pakistan won on these tours before retiring in 1959 after a 21-match career that fetched him 1,071 runs.

Waqar, 87, who had been ill for a while, went on to become a successful businessman after his retirement from cricket, setting up the National Food Products in the city.

He also served as chief selector and manager in the Pakistan Cricket Board.

The PCB expressed its grief and sorrow over his death.

"He was from that elite group of cricketers that laid the foundation of what turned into a proud cricket nation," PCB chairman Ehsan Mani said.

"I had the privilege of knowing him personally and I have nothing but utmost respect for Waqar.

"Waqar was not only an outstanding cricketer but a thorough gentleman who set very high standards. He was an articulate and smart cricket administrator who contributed with his wisdom and progressive approach and vision."