by Ian Marshall

Never seeking the limelight, always a warm and sincere welcome, Sultan Moosavi worked tirelessly not only to promote the sport of table tennis in his native province of Andhra Pradesh, but also throughout India.

He set an example for others to follow; none more so than for Bhaskar Ram Viswanatham, his successor in 2011 as the President of the Andhra Pradesh Table Tennis Association. He described Sultan Moosavi as a true gentleman who patiently listened to the opinions of all before arriving at a solution that enabled matters to move forward in harmonious fashion. Significantly, he stressed the fact that a huge vacuum had now been created.

The views were echoed by M.P. Singh, Secretary-General of the Table Tennis Federation of India. He described Sultan Moosavi as a most amiable, kindly natured person with great organisational skills.

Most notably Sultan Moosavi was very much at the forefront of proceedings at the 2010 ITTF World Cadet Challenge and at the 2012 ITTF World Junior Championships, both events being staged in Hyderabad. He proved the perfect host, always positive, full of energy but above all else, calm, never ruffled.

One would never have known that India had only some three months to prepare for the 2012 ITTF World Junior Championships; New Zealand, the intended destination, being forced to withdraw.

A most successful tournament was staged; the smile on the face of Sultan Moosavi, when matters concluded, reflected the sense of pride and achievement enjoyed by all officials of the Table Tennis Federation of India. The ability to stage the event very much endorsed the quiet, determined and resolute character portrayed by Sultan Moosavi.

Always remembered, our condolences, our thoughts are very much with his daughter and family members.