I don’t know where to begin.
When I started playing cricket in Houston, I met Nasar bhai, and in a very short period of time we became very close friends. We shared coffee from the same cup, gossiped after cricket practice, and spent countless moments together. He would often talk about his weight-loss journey and proudly show me his before pictures. He was truly passionate about living a healthy life, for himself and, more importantly, for his family.
We also shared a deep mutual interest in Soofiyana Kalaam. We would exchange kalaams with each other and discuss how Allah SWT calls His servants closer to Him. Those conversations were meaningful and soul-touching, and they will stay with me forever.
On his last day in this mortal world, we played a match at Stafford Ground. As he walked onto the ground, he looked at me and smiled—and I knew why. I noticed something unusual: for the very first time, he was wearing the full uniform, including the trousers. He said with happiness, “Saif, I’ve reduced a little more, and now these trousers finally fit me.”
He opened the bowling and bowled superbly. In his very first over, he took a wicket—clean bowled. He was the happiest person on the field. After completing three consecutive overs, he said, “Saif, I’m feeling energetic. I can bowl one more over.” And he did.
After the match, we went for lunch together. We spent the whole time together, eating, talking, and planning our next match. He was extremely happy with his performance, and so was everyone else. Even the opponents were shocked by his outstanding bowling.
About an hour later, we went home.
Within two hours, I received the news that shook my soul.
I had left him full of energy, smiles, and high spirits. I could never have imagined hearing about his sudden demise. Most likely, I along with Khalid Khan and Mustafa Hemani was among the last people to be with him.
May Allah SWT rest his soul in eternal peace.
May Allah SWT grant him the highest place in Jannatul Firdaus.
May Allah SWT forgive all his shortcomings.
May Allah SWT grant sabr-e-jameel to his daughter and to our sister.
Aameen Ya Rabbul Aalameen