The Peterborough Evening Telegraph
Family’s pride as tributes pour in for classy local player
The family of well-known local cricketer Kasim, also known as Qasim, Ikhlaq, who passed away aged 30 last week, have thanked the local cricket community for their touching tributes.
Kasim’s brother Asif Rehman said: “The family are deeply touched by the tributes and comments from the local clubs. It meant so much to us and even made a proud grieving mother smile.”
Kasim passed away in his sleep at the family home in Netherton aged just 30.
Kasim attended Thomas Deacon Academy, while playing junior cricket for Orton Park CC. He went to play with distinction for leading local clubs Nassington, Ramsey and Barnack.
Kasim was a clever and accurate slow bowler and an aggressive batsman.
Barnack spokesman Mohammed Yaseen said: “We are all shocked. Kasim was a very good player who was instrumental in our recent successes, but also a lovely guy.
“No-one would have a bad word to say about him. It’s a very sad day for Barnack CC and for the local cricket community.”
Other local crickcters and cricket clubs were quick to pay tribute to Kasim.
“Shocking news such a nice guy too!” Bourne CC allrounder Ben Stroud.
“Such sad sad news. Thoughts with his family. Kasim was a great lad on and off the pitch and will be sorely missed. RIP,” Nassington CC
“Devastating news. A really top bloke and cricketer, rest in peace mate, thoughts with all your family,” Peterborough Town skipper David Clarke.
“So sorry to hear this. He was a true gent and a pleasure to play alongside,” Leighton Gilbert, Ramsey CC.
“What a guy! Lived and breathed cricket, handy spinner and could whip anything for 6! Great talent, will be sorely missed,” Ashley Fisher, Newborough CC.
“Sad day for Barnack cricket as our local hero Kasim left all of us in sleep. May he rest in peace. Love you brother,” Barnack CC.
“Devastated to hear the very sad news that Kasim Ikhlaq passed away in his sleep.
“A great young cricketer and lovely lad lost to us at the age of just 30. Heartbroken and deepest condolences to Asif and the rest of his family. Rest in Peace my friend,” local cricket legend Ajaz Akhtar.
“So sad,played with him at Orton Park, and umpired games he was involved in. A lovely guy and a top player. RIP,” local umpire Phil Marchant.
“Awful news, condolences and thoughts to Kasim’s family at this time. A top cricketer and good friends with many of the lads at the club,” Peterborough Town CC.