More than 450 people from the Islamic community and beyond commemorated the spirit of Ramadan at Lord’s Cricket Ground on Saturday 8 March by gathering for a remarkable Open Iftar event.
The evening, which was staged in a partnership between the England & Wales Cricket Board (ECB), the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) and the award-winning charity Ramadan Tent Project, brought people together to pray, break their fast with a stunning iftar meal, and hear inspiring talks from special guests.
England Men’s player, Saqib Mahmood said: “Bringing the local Islamic community and so many others through the gates of Lord’s was a special moment. It just showed what cricket is all about. As someone fasting for Ramadan, I know how important it is to come together for iftar, and today really felt like one big family.”
Since 2022, the ECB and MCC have partnered to host an iftar at Lord’s in the Long Room, though it has traditionally been a closed event for invited guests. This weekend’s Open Iftar marked an intentional step forward – welcoming in the public and giving many people their first opportunity to experience Lord’s.
The ECB’s Diverse Communities Manager, Sabah Hamed, who spoke at the event said: “When you see the transformational impact of inclusivity like this, with more people able to attend in a more accessible fashion, it’s incredible to experience. The memories from the evening will stay with me forever and shows the power of partnership.”
The Imam, Ismaeel Asif led the call to prayer before guests broke the fast with dates and coconut water. Ramadan Tent Project Founder, Omar Salha said: “We are delighted to have partnered with ECB and MCC to host Open Iftar at Lord’s, especially knowing it was the first time many guests had ever set foot here. It was an incredible evening – full of energy, connection, and a real celebration of community. The power of sport and Ramadan to bring people together was on full display, breaking barriers and building bridges. This historic Open Iftar was even more special as it fell on International Women’s Day, featuring an inspiring all-female line up of speakers and hosts.”
