In a week where the UK celebrates different faiths, perspectives, and understandings through Inter Faith Week, the England & Wales Cricket Board (ECB) spoke to individuals from across the game to further understand what faith means to them.
Inter Faith Week aims to strengthen inter-faith relations, increase awareness of different faith communities, and grow a deeper understanding between people of religious and non-religious beliefs.
A series of common themes emerged in the responses reinforcing the notion that difference can be uniting. Some spoke of how mutual respect for different beliefs develops a stronger sense of inclusivity, whilst others discussed the positive affirmation their faith provides in their daily life. For a third group, their faith was a crucial support during moments of difficulty.
Inclusivity
Communities and teams that perform the best are generally those that enjoy high levels of mutual trust, respect, and friendship. Our respondents said that faith offers an opportunity to build those qualities and forge closer links that benefit all concerned.
“Faith is a cornerstone of my individual identity and provides me with direction when faced with an ethical or moral dilemma. For me, faith is a personal thing, but I feel positive when my faith is celebrated, and I am encouraged to bring my true self to work. Moreover, once barriers are removed and it is considered acceptable to discuss faith and beliefs it encourages inclusiveness. I feel positive when colleagues ask about my festivals, how I celebrate them, and these discussions happen in a respectful and relaxed atmosphere. This builds trust and puts me in a lovely head space. Finally, faith helps me define my priorities and supports me in good and bad times.” - Promila Raina, Cricket Engagement Officer, Essex Cricket
“Whilst I don’t have a religious faith, I believe that the idea of faith brings people of all walks of life together.” - Emily Iveson-Pritchard, Head of Sustainability, Surrey CCC
Positive affirmation
Developing long-term goals and maintaining motivation are crucial to moving forward in a positive direction. Faith can provide the grounding we need to see the bigger picture.
“Faith is really important to me as a Muslim. I believe that in whatever we do, having faith and believing in one God, by praying five times a day, is really important towards being a good human.” - Azhar Mahmood, Bowling Coach, Surrey CCC
“As a committed Christian, my faith in Christ offers a purpose in life for the present, and a hope and forgiveness for the future.” - Rev Ron Spillards, Glamorgan Cricket
“I’m a Christian and I believe faith, for me personally, is believing that Jesus Christ came down to earth and died for our sins so that we can be saved.” - Jo Myburgh, Head Coach, South East Stars
Crucial support
Each of us face challenges in our life. When times are tough, our respondents spoke of their ability to lean on their faith to gather the fortitude and wisdom they need to get through.
“For me, my faith gives me a strong sense of belonging and being God-conscious through the trials of life. This enables me to manage the difficult times and appreciate the good times in context. God’s consciousness within my belief helps me focus and be true to my obligations to the best of my abilities and efforts, reminding myself about my responsibilities to my work, my family, my friends, and others in need. My faith gives me the fundamental principles and guidance that I need to manage my daily routines and creates a direction for me when managing my religious responsibilities and my responsibilities to those within my faith and those that are not.” - Mo Hussain, EDI Manager, Yorkshire County Cricket Club
“‘The only room in this room - is the room for improvement,’ said Siddu. He was a cricketer, comedian and now a politician in north India.” - Kalpana Natarajan, Cardiff
“I guess faith might mean different things to different followers/believers, but for Muslims it is a complete way of life. A disciplined, organised, and dignified lifestyle/path which not just ensures success in this world but more importantly life after death.” - Assan Crawford-Khan, Coach, MCC Foundation (Dulwich and Croydon)
“Faith is the adventure of discovering God’s game plan for my life and is what sustains me in difficult times.” - Rev. Canon Steve Coulson, Chaplain, Surrey CCC
“Faith is believing in one God and having consciousness of Him in day-to-day life - using this life to explore and build on my relationship with Him through the good times and the not so good. Faith is a source of connection, strength, and hope. Faith is using God’s revelations and the teaching of the Prophets as the go-to manual for character, conduct and guidance in life. Faith is believing in this life and the next. Faith is exercising the freedom of choice and trusting/accepting its place with God’s ultimate plan.” - Nafisa Patel, Cricket Engagement Officer, Essex Cricket
A note of thanks to all those who contributed to the creation of this reflective piece about what faith means to different individuals across the game.
For further information on how the ECB is working to make cricket a game for everyone, please visit our Raising The Game webpage.
To read more about how the ECB united with faith leaders from across the country to unveil a Unity statement against discrimination and to promote inclusivity, head to the blog here.