Rival teams come together to remember ‘cornerstone of cricket’ Salamat Hussain

The new cricket season in Queen’s Park has begun with a pre-season friendly between two rival sides in memory of a “legend of the local game”, Salamat Hussain.

Queen’s Park Westfield and Bedford Pakistanis – once huge rivals in the Bedford and District Cricket Premier League – came together on Sunday, 19 April for the opening game of another season, remembering a man who served as a mentor, player and manager across multiple clubs.

“George”, as he was affectionately known, was heavily involved in cricket circles as early as the 1980s, when he ran the Bedford Young Asians in the Bedford and District League, becoming a “cornerstone” for all three clubs.

The special guest for the day was England Senior international, Mohammad Irshad, who still turns out for Queen’s Park Westfield on occasion, and it was he who led the speeches in memory of a much loved gentleman of the sport.

“George had a special way with the younger generation, especially those who were passionate and sometimes headstrong”, said Mohammad.

“He had a unique ability to guide and inspire, offering calm direction that kept the next generation on track. His belief in young cricketers helped shape the lives of many, and his impact will be remembered always.”

On the pitch at Allen Park, the game itself was a low scoring affair typical with mid-April conditions, as Bedford Pakistanis took the bragging rights by four wickets.

Queen’s Park Westfield batted first, and could only muster 85, with Sami Younis taking the first four wickets of what will probably be another season full of scalps.

The chase was a tense, hard-fought affair.

Ameer Ali was instrumental as he matched Younis’ four wicket haul to put Bedford Pakistanis under pressure, but it was Shafi Ahmed – amongst the top batters on the Queen’s Park Westfield honours board last season – who anchored the chase with a key 25.

The trophy was presented to winning captain, Aqib by George’s son, Tahir, in a moment that bridged generations.

While Bedford Pakistanis took the win, the day belonged to the unity of the players, many of whom share the field in their respective Saturday and Sunday leagues for both teams.

As the league season approaches, this match served as a powerful reminder of a shared history built on passion, rivalry, and the enduring legacy of “George”.

“I remember George as someone with a real entrepreneurial spirit – launching many businesses, including a milk round, founding the renowned A1 Cars taxi firm, and pioneering early phone booth shops”, said Queen’s Park Westfield Cricket Club President, Tariq Iqbal.

“Yet, despite all his success, he was one of the humblest and kindest people you could ever meet.

“He gave so much time to Westfield Cricket Club as captain and manager, and he was the backbone and founder of Bedford Pakistanis. He also started Bedford Young Asians in the late 70s and 80s, opening doors for so many. His kindness, his wisdom, and his legacy will always be with us”, he added.

“I want to say a huge thank you to everyone who organised this match in memory of my dad”, added George’s son, Tahir.

“It was a very special moment handing over the trophy, and it meant so much that the family could provide the food and be part of this special day.”