Aligarh Muslim University Alumni Association Qatar (AMUAAQ) Organised “Sir Syed Memorial Cricket Tournament Grand Finale – 2024”
Doha : In a thrilling conclusion to the Sir Syed Memorial Cricket Tournament, the Integral University Alumni Association Qatar (Integral Knights) defeated AMU Alumni Association Qatar (AMUAAQ) to claim victory in the final match. The contest, held at the Old Indian Ideal School ground, was the decisive encounter of a series that had been tied 1-1 going into the final.
The match was part of a series of events commemorating the 207th Birth Anniversary of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, the visionary founder of Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), whose contributions to education in the 19th century continue to inspire. The tournament is one of several activities planned for the celebration of SS Day, scheduled for December 2024. The Aligarh Muslim University Alumni Association Qatar (AMUAAQ) an associate organization (AO) of ICBF under the aegis of the Embassy of India-Qatar. It is a non-profit and socio-cultural organisation committed to promote a sense of brotherhood and foster spirit of community wellness. The forum’s objective is to serve the educational, Welfare, social, literary, sports and cultural needs of the community.
Before the match, various distinguished leaders and guests from the Indian Community Benevolent Forum (ICBF), Indian Social Centre (ISC), and other associated organizations were invited to witness the grand finale. AMUAAQ President Dr. Nadeem Zafar Jilani warmly welcomed these esteemed guests, and Chairman of AMUAAQ, Mr. Jawed Ahmad, introduced the guests to the captains of both teams and shared insights about the tournament.
The final match began with AMUAAQ winning the toss, and captain Mamnoon Ahmad Bangash chose to bat first. However, AMUAAQ’s top order struggled, managing only 20 runs in the first four overs while losing two early wickets. A late flurry of runs from Anees Ahmad, Danish Nabi, and Habib boosted AMUAAQ’s total to 116/7 in their allotted 16 overs. Integral Knights’ bowlers, particularly Ahmad and Abdul, kept a tight line and were well supported by exceptional fielding, including some stunning catches.
Integral Knights’ chase started on a solid note, though they lost an early wicket in the first over. AMUAAQ fought back with strong bowling from Mudassar, Danish and Anees, increasing the required run rate. With 32 runs needed from the last four overs, the game was still in the balance. Integral’s Rohit, however, had other plans. His powerful stroke play, including a crucial six over long off and a square drive, helped seal the win for Integral Knights in the 16th over, with five wickets to spare.
The match was a nail-biting finish, reflecting the intensity of the entire series, which ended with Integral Knights taking the title 2-1. Integral’s Ahmad was named Man of the Match for his all-round performance, while Sher Afghan was honoured as the Man of the Series for his outstanding bowling. The match commentary was provided by Mr. Sanjeev Sharma, Mr. Vivek, Mr. Jawed Ahmad and Mr. Ali Imran
Congratulations to the winning team. A big shout out to the head of AMUAAQ sports Farrukh Farooqui, cricket captain Mamnoon Bangash, chairman, Jawed Ahmad, all executive & board members for flawless arrangements. Mr Sanjeev Kumar Sharma’s lively running commentary also stole the show. There was parallel program organized to keep ladies and children entertained and winners were given prizes. Members of AMU executive committee, Saima Rafat and Ghazala Yasmeen led the activities involving children & families while VP Mohammad Faisal Naseem and GS Khan Farman Khan looked after guests with refreshments throughout the evening.
The even was graced by Mr. Nihad Ali (GS-ISC), Mr. Safeer Rahman (QIA) and Mr. Deepak Shetty (VP-ICBF) The grand finale was attended by distinguished alumni and well-wishers from AMU, including Mr. Shahabuddin, Mr. Rashid, Mr. Faisal Abdullah, Mr. Shahnawaz, Mr. Saeed, Mr. Lutfi, Mr. Majid, Mr. Ashfaque, Dr. Imtiyaz, Dr. Imran Mumtaz, Mr. Ghufran Ali and Mr. Farhan. There was parallel program organized to keep ladies and children entertained and winners were given prizes. Members of AMU executive committee, Saima Rafat and Ghazala Yasmeen led the activities involving children & families while VP Mohammad Faisal Naseem and GS Khan Farman Khan looked after guests with refreshments throughout the evening.
AMUAAQ President Dr. Nadeem Zafar Jilani extended a warm welcome to all guests, and Chairman Mr. Jawed Ahmad highlighted the significance of the event. Special mention was made of Mr. Farrukh Ali Farooqi, Head of Sports for AMUAAQ, for his tireless efforts in organizing the tournament with the support from Mr. Faisal Naseem, Mr. Mohammad Farman Khan and Dr. Mohammad Nayeem.
AMUAAQ President Dr. Nadeem Zafar Jilani congratulated Integral Knights for their exceptional performance and commended the competitive spirit of both teams. With the series concluding at 2-1 in favour of Integral Knights, the event was a fitting tribute to Sir Syed Ahmad Khan’s legacy and a memorable occasion for all those involved.