Shabbir Ali, Yasin Merchant and Aasif Karim felicitated at WF50 Heritage weekend in UK

Former India football captain and Dhyan Chand Awardee Shabbir Ali was felicitated by the World Federation of Khoja Shia Ithna-Asheri Muslim Communities in recognition of his contribution to Indian football during the 50th year celebrations of the organisation named WF50 Heritage weekend at WF House, Harefield, United Kingdom.

“I am deeply honoured and grateful to the World Federation of Khoja Shia Ithna-Asheri Muslim Communities for recognising my contribution to Indian football during the 50th year celebrations of the World Federation programme named WF50 Heritage weekend at WF House, Harefield, UK,” said Shabbir Ali.

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“It is a matter of immense pride to be recognised alongside outstanding sportspersons from the Community across the world. The initiative to honour sporting excellence across approximately 12 categories each for men and women, covering sports such as cricket, football, table tennis, volleyball, and other disciplines, is truly commendable.

“I sincerely thank the World Federation for this prestigious recognition and for celebrating the achievements and contributions of sportspersons. As a former captain of the Indian football team and a recipient of the Dhyan Chand Award and president, Abbas Union FC, Hyderabad,

I consider this honour a special milestone in my sporting journey,” Ali stated.

“I also extend my congratulations to fellow sporting legends, including Yasin Merchant, former World Champion in snooker and billiards, honoured for his lifetime achievements, and Aasif Karim, former Kenyan international cricketer, recognised for his outstanding contribution to sports.

“I dedicate this honour to my family, coaches, teammates, and everyone who has supported me throughout my football career. Such recognition inspires us to continue encouraging young people to pursue sports with dedication, discipline, and passion,” the Hyderabadi added.

“My heartfelt thanks to the World Federation for this wonderful gesture and for promoting sporting excellence and unity within the Community worldwide,” Ali said before signing off.