JEDDAH — Jeddah Cricket Association (JCA) honored former Indian international cricket player Arshad Ayub.
President of the Hyderabad Cricket Association Ayub, who has played 13 Tests and 32 One-Day Internationals for India, was on a short visit to the Kingdom to perform Umrah.
The ceremony also marked the launching of Saudi Premier League (SPL), the first of its kind in Saudi Arabia. It was also graced by Mohammed Khaleequr Rahman, an active community leader in India.
JCA Vice President Aijaz Ahmed Khan introduced Ayub and detailed his contributions as a player from School level to international fame and as cricket administrator.
An engineer by profession Ayub, who also holds a masters degree in is Business Administration (MBA), was the manager of Indian cricket team which took part in the recent world cup. Off-spinner Ayub imparts his wizardry to emerging cricketers through his training center, Arshad Ayub Cricket Academy, for the under 14, 16, 19 and 22 players.
JCA Chairman Dr. Faiz Al-Abideen thanked Ayub, Rehman and other guests for attending the ceremony and being part of the SPL launch. He said JCA is committed to take cricket to the highest levels and is ready to work with all like-minded organizations/individuals for the development of cricket in the Kingdom.
JCA President Mohammad Iqbal thanked the chief guest, sponsors, mediapersons, captains, umpires and other guests on behalf of JCA. He further briefed the audience about SPL and its inception.
Chief guest Ayub expressed his sentiments with a pledge to support JCA in whatever capacity that may be needed. He advised JCA to improve the infra-structure which is must for the progress of the game here.
The campaigner of the Youth Against Speed Rahman also pledged his support for the promotion and growth of the game here.
Ayub was presented with a memento and a shawl by the well-wishers of JCA Mirza Qudrath Nawaz Baig and Syed Rafath Shah, respectively. Azizullah Sharief anchored the program. — SG
