Hello, cricket fans! If you love spin bowling, you’ve probably cheered for Saeed Ajmal, one of Pakistan’s greatest-ever spinners. I’m Mrinal Roy, the founder of Cricketfanzone.com, where I share cricket predictions and tips. Saeed Ajmal, with his magical doosra and clever variations, ruled the cricket world in the early 2010s. From outsmarting batsmen in Tests to shining in the 2009 T20 World Cup, he’s a legend. And guess what? In 2025, he’s back in the spotlight, taking wickets in the World Championship of Legends! In this article, I’ll take you through Saeed Ajmal’s incredible journey—his career, stats, personal life, and his recent heroics. Let’s dive into the world of this spin wizard!
Who is Saeed Ajmal?
Saeed Ajmal is a former Pakistani cricketer and current coach, famous for his right-arm off-spin bowling and his unreadable doosra—a delivery that spins the opposite way to a regular off-break. Born on October 14, 1977, in Faisalabad, Punjab, Saeed is 47 years old as of July 2025. He’s a right-handed batsman, often contributing handy runs lower down the order. Unlike many players who debut young, Saeed entered international cricket at 30, proving age is just a number when you’ve got talent!
Saeed played for Pakistan from 2008 to 2015, representing teams like Faisalabad, Khan Research Laboratories, and Islamabad in domestic cricket. He also played overseas for Worcestershire (England), Adelaide Strikers (Australia), and Dhaka Gladiators (Bangladesh). His career peaked between 2011 and 2014 when he was the top-ranked ODI and T20I bowler by the ICC, and second in Tests. Despite a 2014 ban for an illegal bowling action, Saeed’s legacy as a spin genius remains. In 2025, he’s stealing the show in the World Championship of Legends, reminding us why he’s a fan favourite.
Saeed Ajmal’s Career: A Late Bloomer’s Rise to Glory
Saeed Ajmal’s journey is inspiring because he didn’t get an early break. His hard work and skill made him a shining star in cricket. He started playing domestic cricket for Faisalabad at 18 in 1995 but waited until 2008 for his international debut. Here’s a look at his sports career of Saeed Ajmal:
Domestic Beginnings
Saeed’s domestic career began with Faisalabad in 1995. He was instrumental in Faisalabad’s 2005 ABN-AMRO T20 Cup win, earning the Player of the Match award in the final. In 2006, he was named the best bowler in the ABN-AMRO Patron’s Cup, winning Rs. 25,000 for his efforts. He also played for Khan Research Laboratories (KRL) and Islamabad, shining in the 2008-09 Quaid-i-Azam Trophy with 7 wickets (5/105 and 2/55) in the final, despite KRL finishing as runners-up. His domestic experience gave him the confidence to succeed internationally.
International Debut and T20 Success
Saeed made his ODI debut against India on July 2, 2008, during the Asia Cup in Karachi, taking 1 wicket for 47 runs. He followed it with 2/19 against Bangladesh, helping Pakistan to a 10-wicket win. His big break came in the 2009 ICC World Twenty20, where he partnered with Shahid Afridi to form a deadly spin duo. Saeed took 12 wickets in 7 matches, finishing as the joint second-highest wicket-taker, only behind Umar Gul. His tight bowling (economy rate of 6.00) helped Pakistan win the title, cementing his place in the team.
Test and ODI Dominance
Saeed debuted in Test cricket against Sri Lanka in July 2009 at 31, taking 5 wickets in Galle. His golden period was 2011–2014:
- 2011 World Cup: Played 3 matches, taking 5 wickets at an average of 18.60, troubling batsmen like Sachin Tendulkar in the semi-final against India.
- 2012 vs England: In a 3-0 Test series win in the UAE, Saeed took 24 wickets at an average of 14.70, including 10/97 in Dubai (Man of the Match) and a series-best 7/55. He became the fastest Pakistani to reach 100 Test wickets in just 19 matches, dismissing Matt Prior.
- 2013 ODIs: Took 11 wickets in the Asia Cup, including 3 in the final against Sri Lanka, though Pakistan lost.
- 2014: Ranked No. 1 in ODI and T20I bowling, and No. 2 in Tests, showcasing his mastery.
Saeed’s doosra was his secret weapon. Unlike most off-spinners, he bowled it from the same line as his off-break (just outside off-stump), making it tough for batsmen to pick. In a chat, he explained, “Since my doosra gets 70% of my wickets, why would I stop using it?” His skill in mixing up pace and spin troubled batsmen greatly.
Bowling Action Controversy
In 2009, questions arose about Saeed’s bowling action, but tests confirmed his arm bend was within the ICC’s 15-degree rule. He continued to dominate until September 2014, when the ICC banned him after tests revealed all his deliveries exceeded the 15-degree tolerance. Saeed worked with Saqlain Mushtaq to fix his action, but struggled to regain his old brilliance. He played his last international match in 2015 and retired from all cricket on November 13, 2017, after a final T20 for Faisalabad against Lahore Whites.
Recent Comeback: World Championship of Legends 2025
In July 2025, Saeed Ajmal made headlines again in the World Championship of Legends, a T20 tournament for retired international players. Playing for Pakistan Champions, he delivered a stunning 6/16 in 3.5 overs against Australia Champions on July 29, 2025, destroying their batting lineup. Australia were bowled out for 74, and Pakistan chased it in 8 overs without losing a wicket, thanks to Sharjeel Khan (32*) and Shoaib Maqsood (28*). Saeed’s spell helped Pakistan Champions top the points table with 9 points, proving he’s still got it at 47! Fans on X went wild, with one saying, “Saeed Ajmal at 47 is still bamboozling batsmen!”
Saeed Ajmal Stats: A Spin Legend’s Numbers
Saeed Ajmal’s stats show why he was one of the best spinners of his time. Here’s a breakdown as of his last international match in 2015, sourced from ESPNcricinfo and Cricbuzz:
Test Stats
- Matches: 35
- Wickets: 178
- Average: 28.11
- Best Bowling: 7/55 (vs England, 2012)
- Five-Wicket Hauls: 10
- Ten-Wicket Hauls: 4
- Best Match Figures: 11/111
- Runs: 452
- Highest Score: 50 (vs England, 2010)
Saeed’s best Test series was against England in 2012, where he took 24 wickets in 3 matches. His 10-wicket haul in Guyana (2011) against the West Indies was another highlight.
ODI Stats
- Matches: 113
- Wickets: 184
- Average: 22.73
- Best Bowling: 5/24
- Economy: 4.18
- Runs: 324
- Highest Score: 33
Saeed was ranked No. 1 in ODIs from November 2011 to December 2014, thanks to his tight bowling and deadly doosra.
T20I Stats
- Matches: 64
- Wickets: 85
- Average: 17.83
- Best Bowling: 4/19
- Economy: 6.36
- Runs: 91
- Highest Score: 21*
Saeed was the joint second-highest wicket-taker in T20Is for Pakistan (85 wickets), tied with Umar Gul and behind Shahid Afridi (101). His 12 wickets in the 2009 T20 World Cup were crucial to Pakistan’s victory.
First-Class Stats
- Matches: 148
- Wickets: 578
- Average: 27.01
- Best Bowling: 7/19
- Runs: 2,007
- Highest Score: 53*
Saeed’s domestic record was remarkable, securing over 250 wickets by 2009, including 7 scalps in the 2008-09 Quaid-i-Azam Trophy final.
These stats show Saeed’s dominance across formats. His talent for taking wickets on any pitch made him a daunting opponent for batsmen.
Saeed Ajmal’s Current Teams and Roles
As of July 2025, Saeed Ajmal is no longer an active international cricketer but is involved in cricket as a coach and player in exhibition tournaments:
- Pakistan Champions: Played in the 2025 World Championship of Legends, where he took 6/16 against Australia Champions.
- Islamabad United: Acts as an assistant coach in the PSL, nurturing young spin talents.
- Saeed Ajmal International Cricket Academy: Manages his Faisalabad-based academy, mentoring budding cricketers to chase his legacy.
Saeed has also played for domestic teams like Faisalabad, Khan Research Laboratories, and Islamabad, and international franchises like Worcestershire, Adelaide Strikers, Dhaka Gladiators, and Chittagong Vikings. His recent performance in the 2025 World Championship of Legends shows he’s still a force on the field.
Saeed Ajmal’s Personal Life
- Full Name: Saeed Ajmal
- Age: 47 years (born October 14, 1977)
- Birth Place: Faisalabad, Punjab, Pakistan
- Height: Approx. 5 feet 10 inches (not officially confirmed)
- Batting Style: Right-handed
- Bowling Style: Right-arm off-break
- Role: Bowler, lower-order batsman
Saeed was born in Faisalabad and studied at Government Islamia High School, Jinnah Colony, and Government College University, Faisalabad. He follows Islam and belongs to the Barelvi caste. His family life is private, but we know:
- Parents: Not much is known publicly about his parents’ names or professions.
- Siblings: He has a younger brother, Younis Ahmed, who is also a cricketer.
- Wife and Children: Saeed is married and has two sons, Bilal Ajmal and Hilal Ajmal, and a daughter, Rameen Ajmal. He maintains privacy around his family, keeping them away from public attention.
Saeed is active on social media (Facebook: @saeedajmalofficial, Instagram: @saeedajmalofficial), where he shares cricket updates and occasional personal posts, like his Eid greetings in 2024. He calls himself the “GOAT” (Greatest of All Time) on social platforms, sparking fun reactions from fans.
He also runs Saeed Ajmal Stores, a fashion brand offering ethnic clothing, with branches across Pakistan. His entrepreneurial spirit and coaching show he’s still contributing to cricket and society.
Challenges in Saeed Ajmal’s Career
Saeed faced tough moments:
- Late Debut: Starting at 30 meant he had less time to break records, though he still took 447 international wickets (178 Tests, 184 ODIs, 85 T20Is).
- Bowling Action Ban: The 2014 ICC ban for an illegal action was a setback. Despite working with Saqlain Mushtaq, he couldn’t fully regain his form.
- 2010 Spot-Fixing Scandal: While Saeed was never involved, the scandal rocked Pakistan cricket. A fixer reportedly said Saeed was “too religious” to be approached, showing his integrity.
- 2010 T20 World Cup: Michael Hussey smashed three sixes off Saeed’s final over, costing Pakistan the semi-final against Australia. Saeed called it heartbreaking, but bounced back.
Despite these challenges, Saeed’s resilience and skill kept him at the top until his retirement in 2017.
Why Saeed Ajmal’s 2025 Comeback is Exciting
Saeed’s 6/16 against Australia Champions in the 2025 World Championship of Legends highlighted his enduring skill. At 47, he outsmarted younger batsmen with his doosra and variations, helping Pakistan Champions top the points table. This performance has fans buzzing on X, with one saying, “Saeed Ajmal is still a magician!” His return to competitive cricket, even in a legends’ tournament, shows his passion for the game.
Fantasy Cricket Tips for Saeed Ajmal
If you’re playing fantasy cricket on Cricketfanzone.com for tournaments like the World Championship of Legends, pick Saeed Ajmal! His 6/16 shows he’s a wicket-taker, and his economy rate makes him a safe bet. In domestic or exhibition T20S, his experience and doosra can earn big points, especially on spin-friendly pitches.
Fun Facts About Saeed Ajmal
- He’s Pakistan’s fastest bowler to reach 100 Test wickets, doing so in just 19 matches.
- Shares second place as Pakistan’s leading T20I wicket-taker with 85 wickets.
- Scored a gritty 50 in Tests against England in 2010, despite being hit by the ball!
- Runs a fashion brand, Saeed Ajmal Stores, and a cricket academy in Faisalabad.
What’s Next for Saeed Ajmal?
At 47, Saeed is no longer active in international cricket but is thriving as a coach and a legends’ player. His role with Islamabad United in the PSL and his Saeed Ajmal International Cricket Academy are shaping the next generation. His 2025 World Championship of Legends performance shows he can still dominate. Fans hope to see more of him in exhibition matches or as a coach for Pakistan’s national team, given his experience.
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Conclusion
Saeed Ajmal is a Pakistan cricket hero, with 447 international wickets, doosra brilliance, and unforgettable 2009 T20 World Cup feats. At 47 years old, his 6/16 in the 2025 World Championship of Legends proves he’s still got the magic. From Faisalabad to the world stage, Saeed’s journey inspires every cricket fan. Are you a Saeed Ajmal fan? Please share your favourite memory of his bowling in the comments on Cricketfanzone.com! For more cricket predictions, fantasy tips, and updates, keep visiting my website. Let’s keep cheering for Saeed and cricket! 🏏