Family’s pride as tributes pour in for classy local cricketer who passed away aged 30

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.
By Alan Swann
Published 10th Jul 2020, 11:43 BST
Updated 12th Jul 2020, 09:11 BST
Kasim Ikhlaq (right) receives a bowling award from match sponsor Sunny Singh of Peterborough Cars.Kasim Ikhlaq (right) receives a bowling award from match sponsor Sunny Singh of Peterborough Cars.
Kasim Ikhlaq (right) receives a bowling award from match sponsor Sunny Singh of Peterborough Cars.

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.

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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.

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“It’s a very sad day for Barnack CC in particular and for the local cricket community in general.”

Other local cricketers and cricket clubs were quick to pay tribute to Kasim.

“Shocking news such a nice guy too!” Bourne CC all-rounder 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

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“Can’t believe this news, truly shocked, played against Kasim many years ago. He was a very good player and a very decent person. May he rest in peace,” @navahmedbaloch

“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.

Our thoughts are with all of Kasim’s family and friends - a great guy and a fantastic cricketer who will be missed by everyone at the club,” Ramsey CC.

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“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. Heart broken 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.

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“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. Rest in peace,” Peterborough Town CC.

“Awful news, rest in peace Kasim,” Orton Park CC.

Related topics:David Clarke

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