Sharjah: Qasim Noorani, a passionate lover of the game of cricket, who along with Abdul Rahman Bukhatir placed UAE on the international cricket map, passed away yesterday. He was 84.
Noorani, as the president of the Cricketers Benefit Fund Series (CBFS), helped the UAE create a world record by hosting 198 international matches. He was also the patron of the Sharjah Cricket Council and played an active role in the promotion of domestic cricket in the UAE.
"No words can compliment Noorani's contribution to the welfare of cricket in the UAE. He patronised not only the game but also the players, all the time. He was like a father to me and I will miss him very much," said Bukhatir.
Noorani's knowledge of the game and his organisational ability lifted CBFS to great heights. Even though his health had deteriorated he was up-to-date on every detail of the game.
When Sharjah Cricket Council set up the Al Dhaid cricket village in November 2006 following shortage of grounds in the UAE, Noorani made sure he attended the first match at the village.
Speaking to Gulf News on the occasion, he said: "Cricket should never stop due to shortage of grounds. The love for the game should not have any boundaries."
For Noorani the welfare of the cricketers was of paramount importance and he made sure the best facilities were available for coaching or matches. Through the CBFS, which he headed from inception for three decades, he honoured nearly 150 cricketers around the world with a benefit purse.
Generous
His son Zahid Noorani, who had closely watched his father's love for the game, said: "My father loved the game and devoted his life to it. His integrity, honesty and above all his respect for human values impressed me the most. The CBFS was everything for him. He was a kind a generous person and I am proud to have a father like him," said Zahid.
Macky Dudhia, the General Manager Sports Business of Dubai Sports City, said: "Noorani had created history along with Bukhatir and his demise is a sad loss for the game in UAE.
"He was a thorough gentleman and we will miss him."
