Karachi: Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali has paid tribute to Bollywood actor Nana Patekar, sharing heartfelt memories of their long standing friendship.

According to media reports, Basit said his friendship with the Bollywood star began in 1994 and continued for many years. They would usually speak once or twice a month.

Basit revealed that when his mother was receiving treatment in hospital, Nana Patekar would call him every week to ask about her health, offer prayers and have lengthy conversations with him.

He added that even after his mother passed away, the actor continued to support him and encouraged him to take care of himself.

Basit also recalled that when he experienced heart problems and underwent a procedure to have a stent fitted, Nana Patekar sent him a message to enquire about his health.

Describing the actor as a wonderful human being, Basit said Nana was just as kind in real life as he appeared in his films.