Twenty-five years have passed since the September 11 attacks, a tragedy that claimed thousands of lives and left an indelible mark on history. Among those lost in the collapse of the World Trade Center’s North Tower was Nezam Ahmed Hafiz, a gifted cricketer whose journey spanned from the fields of Guyana to the competitive cricket circles of the United States. At 32 years old, his life and his contributions to the sport were abruptly ended, leaving behind a legacy that his teammates and the cricketing community have worked to preserve.
Born in Guyana on April 21, 1969, Hafiz was deeply immersed in the sport from a young age. His leadership qualities and batting prowess were evident early on, culminating in his appointment as captain of the Guyana Under-19 team in 1988. During that period, he faced off against some of the game's future icons, including a young Brian Lara, who represented Trinidad and Tobago. Following his youth success, Hafiz transitioned into the senior ranks, making his first-class debut for Guyana and competing in several matches throughout the late 1980s and early 1990s.
A Life Dedicated to Cricket and Community
In 1992, Hafiz relocated to New York to join his family, but his commitment to cricket remained steadfast. He quickly established himself as a prominent figure within the local scene in Queens, becoming a key member of the American Cricket Society. His dedication eventually earned him a place representing the United States, an achievement that saw him tour England with the national side in 2000. Beyond his professional aspirations, he was remembered by peers as a thoughtful teammate and a passionate student of the game.
While pursuing his cricketing ambitions, Hafiz maintained a career as a computer analyst for Marsh & McLennan. On the morning of September 11, 2001, he was at his desk on the 94th floor of the North Tower when the building was struck. He was among the 358 employees and contractors from his firm who perished when the tower collapsed. His name is now permanently honoured at the National September 11 Memorial & Museum on Panel N-6 of the North Pool.
Honouring a Lasting Legacy
In the years following the tragedy, the cricketing community ensured that Hafiz would not be forgotten. His former teammates at the American Cricket Society organized memorial matches in Queens, while similar tributes were held at the Malteenoes Cricket Club in his native Guyana. These events served as a poignant reminder of his impact on those who played alongside him.
The significance of his life and his connection to the sport were further cemented in 2011. On the 10th anniversary of the attacks, a memorial match was held in New York, and the cricket bat used during that tribute was donated to the National September 11 Memorial & Museum. Today, that bat remains part of the museum's collection, serving as a lasting testament to a talented athlete whose life was defined by his love for cricket.
