This wonderful introduction succinctly discusses the biographies of Imam Ashraf ‘Ali al-Thanawi and Imam Zafar Ahmad al-Thanawi as well as an introduction to the renowned work: I’la’ al-Sunan.
The translation has been done by our dear friend and regular contributor, Zameelur Rahman, along with a translation of a chapter of the book that will be uploaded at a later time, iA.
We are pleased to be the first to present this translation to the public and ask that everyone keep the translator in their prayers, specifically for the continuation of his contributions. Amin.
-Bilal Ali
at-Tahawi 
“He wrote…Fatihat al-Kalam fi al-Qira’ati Khalf al-Imam in which he verified that it is not obligatory to recite behind the imam in all prayers especially the audible ones, and as far as the silent ones are concerned, it is permissible as is a narration from Imam Abu Hanifah as well. I said to the Shaykh (Allah Almighty preserve him) during my visit to him, when he mentioned this to me: “It is also the opinion of Imam Muhammad,” and he said: ‘Yes, even if al-Kamal ibn al-Humam denied it!'”
This is quite interesting. I have not heard of a position within the maddhab except that it prohibits qira’ah khalf al imam, audible or inaudible.
Jazakallah for translating and sharing this. I have been trying to find English translation or Urdu books by Imam Zafar Usmani or on i’lal Sunan and this is the translation of an intro by Mufti Taqi Usmani.
Jazakallah.
assalamualaikum,
would you being willing to share any information about zameelur rahman? many of the articles here and on other sites are his produce, but readers know nothing about him — who he is, his studies, etc.
regardless, may Allah allow him to continue his contributions and may Allah reward him abundantly for his efforts and benefits to the ummah