Triple Olympian and hockey legend Mohammad Shahid’s untimely death did not go unnoticed in England. Almost anyone one who is someone connected to hockey has something to say, share and enquire more.
Fittingly, the Indian junior team here in Lilleshall National Sports Centre, observed two-minute silence on Friday, the 22nd July before the start of Scotland test match. Their rival team of the day too join them in mourning.
David Faulkner, who played against Mohd. Shahid in two major events of his career – 1986 world Cup and 1988 Olympics – condoled his death.
“I remember his game vividly, its extremely good one. Am really sorry to hear his early death, thanks for telling more about his post playing days”, he said on the sidelines of the Synthetic grass stadium in Lilleshall Sports complex.
David Faulkner defended GB citadel in these two events, must be knowing how difficult it was to stop the likes of Shahid on the field.
He was there to witness a practice match between Scotland and Development Squad of England in which his son also figures.
Manjeet Degun, pillar of Birmingham based Braford Tigers Club expressed his profound sadness over the legend demise.
“I saw him at 1984 Olympics and 1986 World Cup here. He is a class apart”, Manjeet Devgun said with a deep throat.
Amarjeet, an England international, echoed the feeling. “ I heard about him, but I must have been a ball boy then. Indians are known for their skilful game, not surprised they produced classic players like Shahid:”, he said.
A hotel owner from a Punjabi Restaurant in Birmingham , who says many cricket journalists frequent his hotel, feels sad on Shaid’s death.
“I migrated from Mumbai 15 years ago. I used to frequent Mahindra Stadium near Churchgate. I often saw him playing in tournaments there. He used to take ball from circle to circle and pass beautifully to others. Long live his memory”