Image courtesy of: The Hindu

Mohammad still regards Gavaskar as the true ‘Little Master’

Legendary Pakistan batsman Hanif Mohammad, who recently underwent a surgical procedure after being diagnosed with liver cancer, has announced that former India opening batsman Sunil Gavaskar is still the true ‘Little Master’.

Mohammad’s comments come after he received a phone call from Gavaskar to inquire about his condition.

As of right now, India’s Sachin Tendulkar has always been referred to as the ‘Little Master’, despite Gavaskar earning the nickname first.

“Both Sunil and myself chatted for over five minutes and I was highly impressed with his gesture,” Mohammad said. “Gavaskar, in fact, is the Little Master number one, I come second.”

Mohammad was first diagnosed with liver cancer approximately two months ago in Karachi and the legendary batsman even ended up flying to London to get a second opinion before going under the knife.

Speaking about his recovery, Mohammad said: “I feel much better after the successful operation here. [I] Visited doctor once and will be seeing a surgeon once next week before returning to Karachi on 18th or 21st of August.”

According to Mohammad’s younger son, Shahzeb, the 78-year-old has received phone calls and gifts from many other players as well.

“During my dad’s rehabilitation here, he has been receiving several calls from the former cricketers and well wishers,” Mohammad’s son said. “Sunil Gavaskar, Rameez Raja, Zaheer Abbas, Sarfraz Nawaz, Asif Masood, Asif Iqbal have all called to inquire after my father.

“Geoff Boycott, Mike Brearely and the MCC have also sent messages and flowers for my father and wished him recovery which is very heartening for us indeed.”