29 October 2004	Friday	14 Ramazan 1425

JOHANNESBURG, Oct 28: Hashim Amla is on his way to India, but without the sponsors logo. The 21-year-old KwaZulu-Natal Dolphin captain has been included in South Africa cricket squad to tour India, but his kit will differ from those of his team-mates.

His clothes, caps and other kit will not carry team's official Brand.

Hashim, a devout Muslim, has asked United Cricket Board of South Africa permission to play without well-known brand on his chest because it was against his religion.

"We have sorted out the problem for tour to India, but this is not a long-term solution," said Gerald Majola, CEO of UCBSA.

Hashim said he did not know what he would do if UCBSA should decide in future to deny his "humble request. I have not really given this a lot of thought. I am taking one step at a time."

"My friends heard about my inclusion in the team over radio and they have not stopped contacting me," Amla said.

"I am very relieved and very thankful. There are no words to describe how I am feeling," young cricketer said. He does not have any personal goals for this tour.

"I am still too excited to worry too much about that. I will think about it a bit later," Hashim said.

Hashim said Islam was a way of life and in this month of Ramazan it was difficult to spend whole day on field without eating or drinking till sunset but that his religion was his strength.-PPI