Lions Cricket devastated with the passing of Essop Pahad

Born in 1939 in the North-West, avid cricket enthusiast Essop Pahad passed away on Thursday 6 July 2023. The 84-year-old will be sorely missed at the DP World Wanderers Stadium and among the Lions Cricket family at large. 

Lions Cricket President, Anne Vilas offered her deepest condolences to Mr Pahad’s family and friends.

“One cannot adequately capture the immense impact Mr Essop Pahad had on our country during his lifetime. We are honoured that through his love of cricket, he touched the hearts of many of our Pride members, all of whom enjoyed the company of a man who served our country and its people with immense pride and passion – always serving what is right. We thank you for your sizeable contributions, your fight, your willpower. May your soul rest in peace,” said Vilas.

Lions Cricket CEO Jono Leaf-Wright recalls with fondness the presence of ‘Uncle Essop’ in the DP World Wanderers Stadium Long Room.

“It seemed as if this larger-than-life leader never missed a home game for every time I entered the Long Room, Mr Pahad was not only present, but wholeheartedly behind the game as if he was out in the middle himself. He held the game of cricket, the administrators and players in the highest regard and will be sorely missed on matchdays and beyond. We thank you Mr Pahad for your significant contributions to Lions Cricket and beyond the boundary in our treasured South Africa,” said Leaf-Wright.

A press release from Cricket South Africa concluded as such: "Essop Pahad was an admired stalwart in South African politics and an influential leader who helped guide South Africa to a democratic future. Go well ‘Uncle Essop,’ you will be missed. Rest in peace."