Former Golden Jaguars captain Christopher Nurse, has thrown his weight behind Kashif and Shanghai Co-Director Kashif Muhammad, saying he is the ideal candidate for the post of Director of Sports of the National Sports Commission (NSC).
This was disclosed during an exclusive interview with Stabroek Sport yesterday. According to Nurse, 36, Muhammad is an individual who has an undeniable affinity and commitment towards the development of sport, which is highlighted by his extensive career in the sporting sector.
“Kashif Muhammad is an individual who has shown an unquestionable commitment and dedication to sport in Guyana for decades. This is a very exciting time because he is not only a sports enthusiast but he has already shown his dedication and commitment to provide and assist Guyanese athletes in helping and assisting them to achieve their dreams,” said Nurse.
Muhammad, who is tipped for the top post of the NSC, is a notable football administrator following successful years as the promoter of the famed Kashif and Shanghai Yearend Football Championship. The tournament, which started in the mining town of Linden, was staged for more than 22 consecutive years.
Nurse, a former FC Edmonton player, who served as captain of the national side from 2011-2017, stated that while Muhammad is a recognised figure in football fraternity, he possesses a thorough scope and understanding of various disciplines and what is needed for their respective evolution.“He has been rounded in his commitment to sports of a variety of disciplines, basketball, football and many others. He understands the scope of development at ground zero from the many years of service that he has given so far and is well versed in what is required in terms of the development of infrastructure, facilities and development in order for Guyana to proceed forward in sports,” he asserted.
Asked if Muhammad possesses the requisite ability and qualifications required to be at the helm of that important sporting body, Nurse declared, “He has proven to sustain the fortitude and forward thinking in instances such as bringing legends like King Pele to Guyana through the organisation of tournaments. I think all sports enthusiasts and athletes should be very excited for the future of sport in Guyana.”
He stated while he is not ‘au fait’ with newly appointed Minister of Sport Charles Ramson Jr., the possible selection of Muhammad as the NSC Director highlights the former’s vision and understanding of what is required in the development of the Guyana’s local sporting landscape.
Nurse elaborated, “I’m not too versed on Charles Ramson Jr., but I will say the appointment of Kashif Muhammad as director indicates he understands what is required for sports in Guyana to progress. He understands that on a fast wicket you need a fast bowler, and in my encounters with Kashif, he is articulate, thoughtful but is very much in the business of action over aimless words.”
He added, “I would expect to see the rapid refurbishment of community facilities, safe floodlit facilities where kids can participate in recreational sport safely and the enhancement of our national programmes for our athletes. I think this is a very exciting time for sports and look forward to the steps taken to progress Guyanese athletes.”
