Full Name: Hamid Hassan Date of Birth: June 1, 1987 Birthplace: Nangarhar, Afghanistan Teams: Afghanistan National Team, Band-e-Amir Region, Paktia Panthers (Shpageeza League), Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) Before Afghanistan’s rise to the world stage was widely celebrated, there was one man who personified the raw power, pride, and passion of Afghan cricket — Hamid Hassan. With his booming run-up, tearaway pace, and war paint streaked across his cheeks, Hamid wasn’t just a cricketer. He was a symbol of Afghanistan’s fearless emergence on the global scene — the first express pace bowler to turn heads worldwide. Born in the Nangarhar Province, Hamid discovered cricket in refugee camps during the Taliban regime, where passion for the sport thrived despite social unrest. His story is one of triumph against the odds. With no structured coaching or facilities, he developed his action and pace through sheer perseverance, mimicking greats like Wasim Akram and Allan Donald. He first gained global attention when representing the Afghan national side in 2006, long before Afghanistan earned ODI or Test status. At just 19, he impressed the cricketing world with his pace, control, and charisma during the 2009 ICC World Cup Qualifier, where he played a pivotal role in helping Afghanistan gain ODI status. Hamid’s bowling style was simple yet destructive — steaming in with intensity, hurling the ball at speeds touching 140 km/h, and celebrating wickets like a warrior. He often donned black war paint under his eyes, giving him a gladiatorial aura on the field. For a country trying to earn respect in the cricketing arena, Hamid was the first fast-bowling enforcer, someone who intimidated batsmen and earned fans' admiration with every roaring celebration. He represented Afghanistan in multiple World Cups — in 2010, 2015, and made a surprise comeback in 2019 — where his never-say-die attitude was on full display. Despite recurring injuries and surgeries that interrupted his rhythm, he never gave up. Every return to the field was met with sheer determination. One of his most memorable performances came during the 2010 ICC World T20, where Hamid dismissed the likes of Jacques Kallis and AB de Villiers with fiery pace, showcasing that Afghan bowlers could challenge the best. Over the years, he took over 50 wickets in ODIs and over 30 in T20Is, often leading the pace attack with heart and aggression. Even when spinners like Rashid Khan and Mujeeb stole the spotlight, Hamid remained the heart and soul of Afghanistan’s fast-bowling legacy. His mentorship to younger bowlers and unmatched fighting spirit elevated him as a respected figure in the dressing room. Though injuries forced him to retire from international cricket after the 2019 World Cup, his legacy remains deeply rooted in Afghanistan’s cricket journey. Few can forget the warrior who ran in like thunder, painted for battle, and gave every ounce of strength for his country. Off the field, Hamid is humble and deeply patriotic. He continues to inspire a new generation of Afghan fast bowlers, reminding them — and the world — that Afghanistan doesn't just produce mystery spinners, but also ferocious, fearless fast bowlers with fire in their hearts.