Lancashire Cricket celebrates Ramadan with Iftar at Emirates Old Trafford
The Lancashire Cricket Foundation, Young Interfaith and Islamic Relief came together recently to deliver an Iftar at Emirates Old Trafford, welcoming over 500 guests through the doors of the iconic venue.
Held in The Point, guests heard a number of speeches about the significance of the event and Imam Abid Khan of Cheadle Muslim Association led the evening prayer, which was played out through the PA around the ground.
The evening included a traditional Iftar, where Muslim and non-Muslim guests were able to share an evening meal directly after sunset and to break the days fast together. Guests were treated to a conversation between former Lancashire Captain, John Abrahams and Lancashire and England legend, David Lloyd.
Among the 500 plus guests were a number of high-profile dignitaries, including Diane Hawkins (Lord Lieutenant of Greater Manchester), Councillor Bev Craig (Leader of Manchester City Council), Aneel Mussarat (Founder, MCR Property Group) and Saqib Mahmood (Lancashire and England fast bowler).
This year’s event was the third year which has seen the Lancashire Cricket community celebrating Ramadan at Emirates Old Trafford, after hugely successful events over the last few years.
Wakkas Khan, Young Interfaith Founder, said: “Leaders from across our region have come together to say with one voice, that what unites us is stronger than that which divides us. The evening has shown that when we use faith and sport as a cultural bridge, amazing things can be achieved.”
Lancashire Cricket Foundation’s Non-Executive Director, Tayyab Akhlaq added: “We were humbled to welcome so many people to our second annual Community Iftar. Lancashire is home to many diverse communities and hosting them for one night during the month of Ramadan is our pleasure”.
Aneel Mussarat, Founder MCR Property Group also commented: “MCR Property Group is delighted to support the Young Interfaith and Lancashire Cricket Foundation Iftar to celebrate a joyous occasion.”
“Ramadan is a time to humble ourselves, a time of giving and to be grateful for what we have. And it is a wonderful opportunity for communities to come together and celebrate our blessings.”