Trent Bridge has joined other major sporting venues in Nottingham in holding a community Iftar event to mark the holy Muslim month of Ramadan, with the Adhan call-to-prayer performed live over the ground’s PA system.
For a second year in succession, individuals observing Ramadan were invited to break their fast surrounded by friends and neighbours in the venue’s Derek Randall Suite, with live poetry performances preceding the call-to-prayer and the breaking of the fast at sunset.
The Adhan was performed by Ahmed Aslam from Love Mercy Hope, a Nottingham-based organisation who support livelihood, education, water, and health programmes worldwide.
“It was real honour to do the call to prayer here at Trent Bridge,” he said.
“It’s something I’ve been practicing from a very young age and have been performing all over the world, but to do it here in Nottingham – especially at Trent Bridge, where I used to come to play cricket as a kid – was an amazing experience.
“I’m sure the Adhan went far and wide with my loud voice!”
The event was the last of three Iftars hosted by Nottingham sports clubs, after Nottingham Forest and Notts County both held similar events.
“I think the amazing thing with sport is how it unites people, regardless of their faith, race or culture,” continued Ahmed.
“It was amazing to see events at three of the city’s main sports venues on consecutive days.”
Members of Trent Bridge staff also joined attendees in fasting in solidarity with their guests.
“Fasting is a really spiritual experience, and we are really appreciative of the staff who have fasted alongside us for this event,” said Ahmed.
“We hope it wasn’t too difficult for them.”
Trent Bridge will mark the end of the month of Ramadan with Eid prayer on the outfield, following a successful inaugural event last year.