Even an open heart surgery in 1985 didn't deter him from chasing his passion—coaching. His efforts at promoting the game in the valley have now borne fruit—Ali is the US national team coach for the upcoming 24-nation icc tournament in Toronto.
Fondly called "Sir" by local players, age, Ali says, has got nothing to do with his passion for the game—he's seen more on the pitch than anywhere else, either offering tips to eager aspirants or simply chatting cricket.
His eyes twinkle with pride when he sees his son, 26-year old Syed Faaquer Ali (Sid for his friends), play the game. "Sid was six years old when we came to the US. None of his friends played cricket then. Frustrated, he...

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