JEDDAH — Jeddah Cricket Association (JCA) accorded a warm farewell to one of its oldest executive committee members and present treasurer Muhammad Akhtar Hussain, who is leaving for good to his native country Pakistan after serving IMA Freight of AET Shipping in Saudi Arabia for 35 years. The ceremony was attended by eminent personalities of Jeddah, representatives of JCA clubs, media persons, fellow cricketers and JCA executive committee in full strength. It was started with a welcome address by A. A. Merchant, a long-time friend of Hussain. Merchant stated that it was hard to believe that the person who has been at the JCA Cricket Complex on every Friday for so many years is leaving suddenly. A soft-spoken Hussain won the hearts of the cricketers with his exemplary behavior. From the time he was elected to the executive committee and appointed as treasurer, he was totally dedicated and has handled additional portfolios like holding draws, keeping statistics, taking care of logistics and grounds. JCA Chairman Dr. Faiz Al-Abideen lauded his services and said that he was fortunate to have met such a special person and it is hard to say goodbye to him. JCA CEO Mohammed Iqbal, Vice Chairman Humayun, Samir Nidal Khan, who was recently inducted as JCA director, President Aijaz Khan, Vice President Hamid Rana and Syed Majeed Ul Hassan made very touchy remarks. Dr. Syed Ali Mahmood, professor at King Abdul Aziz University, Shameem Kausar and Siadath Ali Khan of Khak-e-Taiba Trust, Arif Qureshi of Bazm E Osmania and Indian Cultural Society, Mohammed Abdul Jabbar of Telangana NRI Forum, Jameel Rathore of Pakistan Journalist Forum, Yousufuddin Amjad, Mirza Qudrat Baig of Dreams India, Zahid Khan and Syed Rafath Shah wished good luck to Hussain. Overwhelmed by sentiments, Hussain made a tearful farewell speech and thanked all his cricket colleagues. JCA executive committee presented a plaque of appreciation and gifts to him and his family as a token of gratitude. The sentimental ceremony was enlivened by well-known singer Sikander with some wonderful farewell songs.
