ODSAL Stadium will play host to an Eid Celebration - the first of its kind in British rugby league - when Bradford Bulls take on London Broncos this Saturday.
Prior to the fixture, BARA (British Asian Rugby Association) take on a Bradford Select Masters’ side.
BARA, a not-for-profit NGO of 18 years standing, was formed by Dr Ikram Butt, the first British Asian to play rugby for England.
Bulls Chairman Nigel Wood said: “We are delighted to be hosting an Eid Celebration on Saturday and welcome Dr Ikram Butt, Humayun Islam and members of the Muslim community to Odsal Stadium following Eid Al Ahda last weekend.
"The Bradford Bulls are fully committed to using sport to bring different communities together and this weekend’s events at Odsal Stadium are just the start as we continue with our aims of becoming a force for civic pride and good in the city.”
On Sunday, a select group of children will participate in a multi-sport camp at Odsal as part of the celebrations.
Humayun, CEO of BEAP Community Partnership, added: “We are delighted to be collaborating with Nigel Wood and the Bradford Bulls to be hosting such a unique event.
"It’s the first of its kind and we are very proud to be part of this historic occasion.
"The following day some very lucky youngsters will get their first ever introduction to rugby league on the iconic Odsal turf.”
Muhammed Asim MBE, the first full-time Imam in the country, Lt Col Andy Black and Iqbal Bhana OBE, DL will all be in attendance.
Imam Qari Asim MBE, Chair of the Mosques & Imams National Advisory Board, said: “Bradford Bulls hosting the first of its kind Eid Al Adha event is a very positive and encouraging step.
"It’s important for us all to understand each other’s beliefs and to celebrate diverse cultures.
"There is still some way to go towards greater inclusion and advancement of minorities in rugby, and events such as these which recognise cultural or religious celebrations of both players and spectators are key to promoting inclusion and fostering a sense of true belonging for all.”
Dr Butt added: “It’s a remarkable gesture by Nigel Wood and Bradford Bulls to host an Eid celebration event.
"The first of its kind in the northern hemisphere by any rugby club across both codes."
Get down to Odsal when gates open at 4pm for the curtain raiser masters match.
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