- information for 2016
Over the next few years, the Islamic month of Ramadan will coincide with the Cricket season and may have an impact on clubs and leagues with Muslim members and need to be aware of a few facts about the practice of fasting during the month:
• Ramadan is the ninth month of Islamic calendar; it is the month of fasting, in which participating Muslims refrain from eating and drinking from dawn until sunset.
• As compared to the solar calendar, the dates of Ramadan vary, moving backwards about 10 days each year depending on the moon.
• Whilst fasting Muslims may only eat two meals a day, one before sunrise and the other after sunset.
• Muslims are expected to start observing the fasting ritual once they have reached the age of puberty, which varies with each individual, as long as they are healthy, Older people, chronically ill and disabled people are exempt from fasting, however you may find children as young as 10 or 11years of age wanting to ‘join in’.
• There is a set time for end of the fast each day in line with sunset, this will have an impact on evening matches, as they may need to take a short break to end their fast.
• The holiday of Eid-ul-Fitr marks the end of the fasting period of Ramadan, and is celebrated after 29/30 days of fasting.
• In 2016, Eid festival is likely to be around 7th July, which will have an impact on Cricket fixtures.
Muslims are encouraged not to use Ramadan as an opportunity to avoid aspects of normal life, most people are able to play Cricket during the month of Ramadan without putting themselves at risk or in danger, however Junior Cricket managers and coaches should be aware that fasting may make some children feel tired or drowsy, or even develop headaches due to dehydration.
No oral medication can be taken by a person who is fasting, anyone needing regular medication during fasting hours is exempt from fasting in any case.
During emergencies, where a child’s wellbeing is at risk medicine should be administered.
During the month of Ramadan evenings can be a very busy period for Muslim families, furthermore, some adults and children will spend their time observing additional religious activities at the mosques, this will have an impact on their ability to attend practice sessions, matches and meetings organised by clubs and leagues.
For further information on Ramadan, visit the Muslim Council of Great Britain website Click here