In 2003, Saudi Cricket received formal recognition as an associate member of the Asian Cricket Council and an affiliate member of the International Cricket Council, after obtaining a license from the General Presidency for Youth Welfare
Cricket in Saudi Arabia has evolved significantly over the past five decades, largely owing to the substantial contributions of the Indian diaspora. What began as informal matches on weekends in regional cricket associations in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam in 1978, has now blossomed into a structured and vibrant cricketing landscape, according to a report in Arab News.
In 2003, Saudi Cricket received formal recognition as an associate member of the Asian Cricket Council and an affiliate member of the International Cricket Council, after obtaining a license from the General Presidency for Youth Welfare. The primary aim was to foster the growth of cricket across the Kingdom, particularly at the grassroots level. Fast forward to 2020, the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation was established under the auspices of the Saudi Arabian Olympic Committee and the Ministry of Sports, with Prince Saud bin Mishal Al-Saud assuming the role of chairman, the report said.
Yet, the roots of cricket in Saudi Arabia delve deeper into the daily lives of South Asian expatriates who, for years, engaged in impromptu matches on the streets and parking lots of major cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam, thereby embedding the sport into the cultural fabric of the region.
“Among the key contributors to the surge in cricket’s popularity is the GK International Indian Sports Club in Riyadh. Dr. Gayas Ahmed Sattar, the club’s president, emphasized the inspirational narrative behind cricket’s rise in the Kingdom, attributing much of its success to the relentless efforts of the Indian diaspora. He highlighted the pivotal role played by esteemed Indian cricketers like Mohammed Azharuddin and Kapil Dev, who visited Saudi Arabia to promote the sport and inspire budding talents.”
Over the years, numerous small clubs, including GKIISC, have emerged, propelling cricket forward by organizing tournaments and adhering to ICC rules. The annual Youm Al-Watani Cup, hosted by GKIISC, stands as a testament to the sport’s growing popularity, transitioning from tape-ball matches to full-fledged hardball tournaments.
The story of cricket in Saudi Arabia is not merely about sporting conquests but serves as a testament to the harmonious fusion of cultures and the enduring spirit of collaboration within the Indian diaspora
Indian expatriates have also assumed leadership roles within the cricketing infrastructure of the Kingdom. Individuals like Nadeem Nadavi have been instrumental in managing cricket affairs, while players such as Hisham Shaikh and Mustafa Khalander have excelled in the Saudi national cricket team, significantly contributing to the sport’s development.
Furthermore, Mohammed Azimooddin Abdul Rahiman Karajagi, an ICC-certified curator and umpire, has been pivotal in nurturing cricket talent through his coaching endeavors at the Riyadh Cricket Association and Mark Cricket Academy.
The report quoted Mohammed Kaleem who mentioned sentiments regarding the Indian diaspora’s indispensable role and emphasized their journey from grassroots initiatives to international recognition in the realm of cricket.
Arab News also quoted Ahad Murtaza, a faculty member at King Saud University and a cricket enthusiast. He underscored the unifying power of cricket, describing it as a gentleman’s game that transcends cultural boundaries, fostering camaraderie and discipline among players.
In essence, the story of cricket in Saudi Arabia is not merely about sporting conquests but serves as a testament to the harmonious fusion of cultures and the enduring spirit of collaboration within the Indian diaspora, as reported by Arab News.
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