Just as political strife has been inherent with the history of the man and civilization, similarly games is a part of the history of man as a social animal; aiding his interrelation with other individuals and groups, accentuating his civilization and culture. So what could be more apt than to use the medium of sports and games for aiding the process of peace between India and Pakistan? The recent cricket series between India and Pakistan in the latter’s homeland was a much desired step to bring the two neighbouring rivals closer.

The Dawoodi Bohra community, taking cue from this act and wishing to help in paving the way to better relations between Pakistan and India, held a series of three one-day matches. This goodwill tour was played between the Pakistani Bohra cricket team and the Indian Bohra team comprising of players from different cities of India which arrived especially on the invitation of the Bohra Community in Pakistan. This event, organized by Shababul Eidiz Zahabi,under the auspices of Faize Hakimi, Karachi Dawoodi Bohra Jamaat, was part of the assortment of celebrations regarding the 93rd Salgirah of His Holiness, Dr. Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin TUS, the spiritual leader of the Dawoodi Bohra community and an acclaimed Ambassador of peace and goodwill.

The first match of this goodwill tour, which was held on Sunday, 31st June 2004, at the Agha Khan Gymkhana was won by the Indian team who chased a target of 161 runs in merely 27.5 overs. Syedna Burhanuddin’s nephew Al Eqyan Bhaisaheb visited the inaugural match. Indian batsman Huzefa Patel made 61 runs and remained not out.

The second one-day was played on Tuesday, 15th June at the same venue in which the Indian side came out victorious. The final match played at the Asghar Ali Shah Stadium Karachi, which was a day-night event, ended in a tie, remaining nail-biting till the very last over. The Pakistani side made 132 runs for the loss of 9 wickets with Baqir Sajjad contributing 51 runs. Sajjad was deemed not only man of the match but also batsman of the series.

The matches were played in a friendly atmosphere clearly manifesting the message of peace and understanding between the two countries, for which there is a dire need. His Holiness, Dr. Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin has urged for peace and harmony throughout the world with special emphasis to the relationship between India and Pakistan. In several of His Holiness’ speeches in his ongoing tour of Pakistan which commenced on 22nd May, Syedna Sahab has reiterated his pleasure at the positive steps that have been taken by the two neighboring countries and prayed for the success of the peace process.