- September 9, 2019
- Posted by: Vaughan Gething AM
- Category: Latest News
On Friday, Cardiff South and Penarth Assembly Member, Vaughan Gething welcomed Grangetown and nearby Riverside cricketers, Prem Sisodiya, Umar Malik, Mujahid Illyas and Osama Subhan and Cardiff Cricket Club Coach Kevin Lyons to the Senedd. The cricketers were given a tour of the Senedd and joined Vaughan for a celebratory afternoon tea.
Prem Sisodiya aged 21 is the first Cardiff born Asian to play in county championship for Glamorgan since 1921. Umar, Mujahid, and Osama all attended Fitzalan High and play for Glamorgan Second Team. All four graduated through Cardiff CC’s age groups, and now represent the club in the Welsh Premier League.
Coach and former Glamorgan batsman, Kevin Lyons, who has coached the four from the start, proudly applauded their achievements.
Kevin Lyons said: “Talent often comes to nothing without dedication, and these lads always had heaps of it, which made it a pleasure to coach them”.
“For five years they attended a weekly winter training session that concentrated on discipline, and technical skills in batting, bowling and fielding. What they’ve achieved is just reward for their hard work and great attitude. I now hope they can progress to a higher level in the game.”
Gulfraz Riaz, Chairman of the National Asian Cricket Council, said: “It’s fantastic to see four young Asian cricketers from Cardiff receiving such high recognition for their incredible dedication and commitment. It is also important to acknowledge the huge part Kevin Lyons has played in their progress.”
Vaughan Gething said: “It was great to invite Prem, Umar, Mujahid and Osama here today to celebrate their fantastic achievements. I am really proud of them, they are positive role models across a wide range of communities in sport and beyond. I look forward to watching their cricketing careers develop in the coming years”.