Mir Mohsin Ali Saudi Gazette RIYADH — Former Indian skipper and ex-member of parliament Mohammed Azharuddin was impressed to see the all-round development of Indian community in Saudi Arabia; specially the growth of Hyderabadi community in all spheres. He lauded the keen interest and dedication of the Hyderabadi community in promoting cricket in Saudi Arabia. He was addressing a large gathering of Indian expatriates at a Niagara Restaurant in Riyadh during his visit to the capital recently. The ceremony to felicitate Azharuddin was organized by All India United Society (AIUS). It was sponsored by Mumtaz Group of hotels. Azhar lauded the role of Mumtaz Group in promoting cricket in Riyadh. The group has sponsored many cricket tournaments. He also praised and thanked Mohammed Rafeeq, vice president AIUS and general manager Mumtaz Group, for arranging a glittering function. Azhar advised youth to play cricket and inspired them to be the best in terms of commitment and dedication for their team. He also advised youth to workout daily for their fitness as it is very vital factor in day-to-day life. Dr. Mohammed Ashraf Ali, President, AIUS welcomed the gathering, and said Azharuddin has set many records in his career and hoped that he will provide some tips to the Indian youth aspiring to excel tin the game of cricket. Rafeeq thanked Azharuddin for accepting his invitation and he assured the former player that the Hyderabadi community will again invite the cricket legend to Riyadh in the near future. Syed Moazam Ali, Chairman, Al-Wefaq Al-Shaheqa, also spoke on this occasion. Dr. Ashraf Ali, Mohammed Rafeeq and Syed Moazam Ali presented a memento to Azharuddin. Azharuddin also presented a memento to junior table tennis icon Amaan ur Rahman. The huge number of Azhar's fans gathered outside the venue and the street of Al-Wazarat area was milling with his fans for some time. Mohammed Taufeeq presented a bouquet to Azharuddin. Syed Kareem Khalid, general secretary of AIUS, provided the vote of thanks. In recognition of the services to promote cricket in Riyadh through Riyadh Premier League, a cricket bat autographed by Azharuddin was presented to Taher Bin Jaffer. Renowned journalist and television news anchor Mohammed Asif Ali, news head Ruby TV, conducted the proceedings. All India United Society also gave mementos to Syed Akram Mohiuddin and Aftab Nizami.
