Farewell to a pioneer of non-racial sport
PIONEER of non-racial sports, Abduraghman “Lefty” Adams, passed away at the age of 84.
Lefty was one of the greatest cricketers of our times. He earnestly strove to eradicate racism in sports – he believed that the fight against racism must be rooted in the recognition of and respect for everyone’s humanity and dignity.
Those who have experienced the impact of racism will agree that it is a scourge that cuts deep and causes pain and human suffering. The history of the world has seen too many crimes of hate and discrimination.
From the civil rights movement in the US to the fall of apartheid in South Africa, many people have come together to fight racism and discrimination, and they have achieved remarkable things.
Lefty was an outstanding cricketer who was a pivotal figure to oppose racism in every avenue of sport.
We must work relentlessly to remember his immense contributions in fighting for a nonracial South Africa. Racism has left its scars on our people – the injustices it created and the inequalities it constructed – under this brutal system.
Lefty could not participate in international sport. We lost a cricketing legend. He was a great stylist who played with great flair and supreme skills, a dedicated man who will be remembered as much for his way of life as for his bowling and cricketing prowess.
We can think of no other person who imbued non-racialism and equality with a clear vision in a racially prejudiced world. His legacy will be based on compassion, equality and social justice. He was a beacon of hope in a divided land. A visionary who worked tirelessly to promote equity in sports.
Hamba kahle “Lefty”, or “Boeta Maan”, your imprint will crease the turf for many generations. May Almighty Allah grant “Lefty” a “Lofty” place in Jannah. Ameen.