A Star on the Horizon :Hashim Amla – Professional Cricketer

By Bibi Ayesha Wadvalla

In a world where fame is all-pervading, it is heartening to come across a young man who cares not for fame, a young man grounded in his principles, a young man unassuming enough to just be himself. Meet Hashim Amla, a young South African man who made headlines last year when he was selected to play for the Proteas, the national cricket team.

Having his face splashed across the front page of every newspaper did nothing to dent the wholesome modesty this young man possesses.

Born in a small town north of Durban, Natal, Amla grew up playing outdoors under the South African sun "and getting sunburnt," he laughs.

Sport played a huge role in these outdoor games. It was when he moved to DHS — a school renowned for its sporting and academic heritage — that Amla flourished. Sport was no longer just a childhood game — it was evolving into a career. Amla was chosen for the provincial team, Nashua Dolphins; captained the U-19 South African team; and was finally selected for the Proteas at the tender age of 21 — a position lauded by the press as well deserved.

But alas, after playing in only two test matches, he was dropped from the squad. Cries of racism resounded through the country. Amla, mature for his years and firm in his faith, succinctly says, "Although it was disappointing for me not to do as well as I wanted to, it was taqdeer. I had worked hard to get there, but Allah knows best. This belief helped me overcome the disappointment."

It is this quality which makes Hashim Amla an inspiration. Most people in his situation would lap up the fame, and blame other factors for their performance. He continues to work hard at his game and seeks assistance from Allah with patience and salah. Amla is grateful to also have the guidance of the Ulema-e-Haq, of whom he says, "This association with learned and elderly people keeps me grounded."

For Amla, success comes from balancing worldy activities with deen.

Today, many Muslim youth are apologetic about their faith. Not Hashim Amla. Together with his fellow Muslim Dolphin teammates, brother Ahmed Amla, and Imraan Khan, they offer their salah on the field. Despite the rigorous heat, they fasted in Ramadan even when playing. This has gained them great respect from both Muslims and non-Muslims. When Amla was selected for the SA squad, he asked that he be excused from wearing the logo of an alcoholic beverage sponsor. "Al-hamdu lillah," smiles Amla, "this request was met with consideration for my beliefs."

Questions about Islam and its practises were raised and thus, on and off the field, Amla has had excellent opportunities for da`wah work. Over the years, he has met with many curious enquiries, specifically from his teammates. Of them, Amla remarks, "My teammates have begun to understand what Islam is, what Muslims do and how we lead our lives."

Is Amla, then, both a role model for Islam and youth? Humbly, he replies, "I don't have wings, so I'm no angel. But if people see me as a role model, I am grateful, al-hamdu lillah." He is especially thankful for the support and encouragement from young fans. "I see the boy I once was in them," he says. "I see the dreams I once cherished, and am now realising. I would love to see more Muslim youth involved in professional sport, provided it doesn't interfere with them practising the beautiful teachings of Islam. A conservative attitude that sport is not a stable career exists. If you have faith, you cannot go wrong."

Amla adds that in a country ravaged by apartheid, youngsters should avail themselves of the opportunities denied to their elders. His good nature is exemplified when he comments, "And it is always pleasing in the heart to see a fellow Muslim do well."

On friends and family, Amla urges youth to connect with their parents. "I have learned so much from my parents by merely observing their qualities, let alone the lessons and advice they have given me. Undoubtedly, righteous friends are imperative. They play a huge role in molding us — be it positive or negative."

In his spare time, Amla pursues knowledge by reading Islamic literature and sporting biographies. Spending time alone with his thoughts and mentally visualising his game, are integral in helping him maintain a winning streak. He reiterates that for success, youth should work hard, and use the golden key — salah and du`aa'.

Where does Amla see the future leading him? "I leave my fate up to the Almighty," he says with true conviction. But he prays for a cricket history which will place him in the record books. The conversation takes a personal turn. At 22, Hashim Amla says that marriage is in the plans for the future, but he's not sure how soon. The girl whom he chooses will be blessed to have him as a husband.

Hashim Amla epitomises a rare breed in today's times — a young man with excellent character. May Allah bless him in all that he strives for.

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** Bibi Ayesha Wadvalla is a Biomedical Science student, a freelance journalist and an active youth worker in South Africa. She can be contacted a