Fun cricket tournament to help Palestinian folk
A SPORT-MAD Burton man has launched a cricket tournament to raise money for those suffering in Palestine’s humanitarian crisis.
Akmal Riaz, who works as a team member at Toyota’s Burnaston plant, feels passionately about the humanitarian crisis in the Middle East.
And he is hoping to marry his love of sport with helping Palestinians suffering after last month’s 11-day war between Israel and Hamas, which saw dozens of homes and buildings destroyed and hundreds killed.
Weather permitting the tournament, which will be an eight-a-side competition with eight cricket teams from Burton, will take place on Sunday, July 18, from 11.30am at Stapenhill Gardens.
Teams have to contribute a minimum donation of £50 for the cause – and so far seven teams have registered. Mr Riaz, 38, said: “After seeing what is happening over in Palestine I wanted to do something where I can get people involved and support the cause.
“It’s a very good time to do something like this and I know people are wanting to get back into playing sports.
“I will be entering a team and I am looking forward to having a good day. “We will have a collection bucket on the day and there will be a lot of Asian snacks and refreshments on the day which will contribute towards the final total.
“Personally, I am more of a footballer, but cricket is another sport I enjoy, there has never been a tournament like this in Burton before. “They do have tournaments in Burton, but that is for cricket players who play at a higher standard; this tournament will have a mix of players that play professionally and socially.
“I am confident the day will bring people together and hopefully raise as much money as possible to help those who need our help.”
I am confident the day will bring people together and raise as much money as possible.
Akmal Riaz