As millions of Muslim pilgrims arrive in Saudi Arabia for this year’s Hajj, England international cricketer Adil Rashid reflects on his experience undertaking the blessed journey in an exclusive interview with Islam Channel.
The Yorkshire County cricketer, currently representing England in the T20 World Cup, also shares how the England team accommodates Muslims and is respectful of Islam.
Rashid mentions how he always wanted to perform Hajj but found it difficult due to the timing of the cricketing season.
He was eventually able to take leave from the English Cricket Board to perform the Hajj with his wife. Rashid was one of the one million worshippers in attendance at the first Hajj open to non-citizens since the coronavirus pandemic.
Rashid also discusses the respect and understanding shown by the England team towards Muslim players and his relationship with friend Eoin Morgan, including when Morgan told the press that Rashid said England would win the 2019 World Cup because “Allah is with us.”
“I feel really comfortable around the people within the England environment,” says Rashid.
“They show respect. They know about salah, they know we have to pray, they know about halal food, they know about all the champagne stuff…. when they celebrate, there’s no champagne.”
“In that sense, the respect is massive. A lot of credit goes to them for knowing that, accepting that and also catering for that.”
Watch the interview to learn more about the valuable lessons Rashid learned from his Hajj experience. It offers a unique glimpse into the spiritual journey of a professional athlete.
