Condolence Message: Omar Kureishi passes away today

Chairman Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has expressed deep sorrow on the passing away of his close friend and brilliant commentator/columnist Mr Omar Kureishi.

In a condolence message to Mr Omar Kureishi's family, the Chairman PCB said, "Omer Kureishi achieved the rare status of being a legend in his life-time. His passing away has deprived the cricketing public of a colossus in journalism and broadcasting who will be mourned by cricket lovers all over the world and especially in Pakistan. I can think of no better tribute than to liken Omar Kureishi to a Neville Cardus and John Arlott rolled into one. Omar Kureishi's ascent to the pinnacle of his profession was due to his impeccable integrity, fairness and meticulous attention to detail. He made it the hard way through honest professionalism. Omar's incisive criticism was never self serving, always constructive and aimed at improving the health of cricket.

Omar Kureishi is irreplaceable as a journalistic icon in Pakistan. I shall miss him as a friend of long standing and as the doyen of the cricket journalists of Pakistan. Outside the realm of cricket, Omar contributed to journalism through his political columns and personal memoirs. I convey my deepest condolence to his family at the tragic loss."

Abbas Zaidi
Director Board Operations

(Article: Copyright © 2005 Pakistan Cricket Board)