Saturday, May 10, 2025

Super Asset Cup main event of LRC in Sunday's races

 


Super Asset Cup main event of LRC in Sunday's races


Asher Butt

The 37th day of the Winter Meeting 2024–25 will unfold on Sunday, May 11, 2025, at the Lahore Race Club, featuring a thrilling six-race lineup featuring the prestigious Super Asset Cup and five divisions of the Brumal Plate.

As the Super Asset Cup will be run over 1200 metres, all other races are set for a 1000-metre run, kicking off at 3:30 PM with a maiden event for Class VII Division VI and VII horses.

The opening race includes contenders such as Barrister, Leo Star, Queen of Sodiwal, Badal Man, Bobby, and I Shall Lead, but all eyes will be on the favourite Advocate, with Jhanbaz expected to place and Awais Prince tipped to surprise.

The second race sees Mafnood JR emerging as favourite among a strong lineup that includes Raftar, Sky Warrior, Tango To Fire, Mumraiz Love, Emerging Star, American Star, Stiff Gold, and Thunder Prince (KRC).

In the third race, Zaman Sahib leads the betting odds, followed by Dur-e-Adan and dark horse Rafah, while Pocket Power, Lucky Macs, Little Master, Naveed-e-Sahar, and Thunder Man (KRC) complete the field.

The fourth race presents Get One as a top pick, Paddington likely to place, and Dubawi’s Angel capable of causing an upset, alongside Wynx, Chala Queen, Dark The Grey (KRC), Qalandar, Zarnaj, and Taimoorian.

In the fifth race, Desert Crown is favoured, with Zuza expected to follow closely and Sultan Prince entering as a fluke element, joined by Son of Sultan, Samary, Thunder Stone, and Champion of Jesus.

The feature race of the evening, the Super Asset Cup, brings together Verde One as the frontrunner, Feel My Love in contention for a place, and Brooklyn considered the wildcard, with Nisha and Ceaser rounding out the competition.

The Lahore Race Club has announced that final declarations will be received by 2:30 PM on race day and emphasized that all races will be held strictly without betting or wagering. 

Additionally, the club clarified that horse participation does not require membership with any owners’ association, reaffirming its inclusive registration policy under approved rules. With a competitive field and structured race day format, the event promises an exhilarating evening for racing enthusiasts.

Friday, May 9, 2025

PSL postponed, IPL suspended amid escalating Indo-Pak tensions




PSL postponed, IPL suspended amid escalating Indo-Pak tensions

Asher Butt


In an unprecedented disruption to cricket in the subcontinent, both the Pakistan Super League (PSL) and Indian Premier League (IPL) have been halted due to mounting military tensions between Pakistan and India following recent cross-border conflicts.

PSL fully postponed following government advice

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced on Friday the complete postponement of the Pakistan Super League, following advice from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif amid rising security concerns.

"Cricket, while being a unifying force and a source of joy, must take a respectful pause," the PCB said in an official statement.

This announcement comes shortly after the PCB had initially planned to relocate the eight remaining PSL matches to Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The earlier relocation decision was prompted by growing concerns among overseas players and the need to prioritize their safety after reports of an Indian drone crashing near Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, who also serves as Pakistan's Federal Interior Minister, had previously described the situation as presenting an "unprecedented threat" to players, staff, and spectators.

The postponement affects matches originally scheduled in Rawalpindi, Multan, and Lahore. The PCB has not indicated whether this year's tournament will resume at a later date.

IPL 2025 suspended amid security threats

Across the border, the Indian Premier League—widely regarded as cricket's most lucrative tournament—has been suspended for at least one week following sudden escalation in security concerns.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed the decision Friday, stating it was made after consultation with franchise owners and assessment of "genuine safety concerns" raised by players and officials.

"We cannot risk the lives of anyone associated with the league," said a senior BCCI official. "A pause is necessary until the situation stabilizes."

A league match in Dharamshala between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals was abandoned midway on Thursday after Indian air defense systems reportedly intercepted what officials claimed were aerial intrusions near the border.

Financial implications

The financial stakes are significant for both leagues. According to analysts, a single IPL match generates approximately $15.1 million in broadcast revenue. The league's media rights are held by JioStar, a joint venture between Disney and Reliance Industries' Mukesh Ambani.

For the PCB, the situation represents another setback for a tournament that has previously relocated to the UAE during its early seasons and in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Political context

The disruptions follow the May 7 cross-border conflict, reportedly triggered by a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, followed by India's military response referred to as "Operation Sindoor."

The IPL has not included Pakistani players since 2009, following the Mumbai terror attacks. Pakistan subsequently developed the PSL as its flagship franchise tournament.

Cricket analysts note that the sport in the subcontinent has long mirrored the region's political tensions, with both current suspensions highlighting how sports continue to be affected by geopolitical developments in South Asia.

As both leagues face uncertainty, cricket boards must navigate significant logistical challenges while prioritizing security concerns. For millions of cricket fans across Pakistan and India, the hope remains that the beloved sport can eventually transcend political divisions.

 


Sunday, May 4, 2025

Upsets galore at LRC feature races




Asher Butt

LAHORE: Punters and racing enthusiasts witnessed a series of unexpected results at the Lahore Race Club yesterday, with underdogs clinching victory in four of the five races contested, including two of the three featured cup events.

In a day marked by surprise outcomes, only one favorite managed to secure a win, as Little Master lived up to expectations by claiming the prestigious Peace Cup in the opening race. Sky Warrior, considered a fluke by many, secured second place, while place favorite Advocate finished third.

The May Cup, the second feature race of the evening, produced the first major upset when Lucky Macs stormed to victory against the odds. Mafnood JR, another unexpected contender, came in second, with Thunder Man surprising spectators by taking third position.

The trend of upsets continued in the third featured race of the day, the Labour Day Cup, where Brooklyn demonstrated exceptional performance to clinch first place. Luna Afzaal, rated as a fluke pick, secured second position, while place contender Dominus had to settle for third.

The fourth race, a Kashmir Plate event, saw Moshi Queen causing another upset by taking top honors. Vartika performed as expected to finish second, while Thunder Boy (KRC) surprised many by claiming third place.

In the final race of the day, Zaid Prince completed the pattern of unexpected results by securing a surprise victory in the second Kashmir Plate event. Pre-race favorite Rayaan Prince could only manage second place, with Zaman Sahab, who was expected to place, finishing third.

The series of surprising results delighted some lucky enthusiast while leaving many favorites-backers disappointed, in what racing officials described as one of the most unpredictable racing days in recent Lahore Race Club history.

Racing action continues at the Lahore Race Club next weekend with another full card of events scheduled.

Saturday, May 3, 2025

PSL, IPL redefine cricket viewership with record-breaking digital engagement


PSL, IPL redefine cricket viewership with record-breaking digital engagement


Asher Butt

The Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2025 and Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 have shattered digital viewership records in their opening weeks, marking a transformational shift in how cricket is consumed across South Asia and the world.

Both leagues — dominant forces in the cricket calendar — are spearheading a revolution in digital sports broadcasting, as technological advancements and fan-driven innovations redefine global cricket engagement.

 

PSL X sees unprecedented digital growth

Running from April 11 to May 18, PSL X has exceeded projections with 477.7 million live streaming views in its first three matches, registering an astonishing 826.5% increase compared to PSL 9. By Match 12, the tournament had amassed over 1.1 billion views and 16.25 billion minutes of total watch time across various digital platforms.

 

Social media engagement has also seen historic highs:

By Match 21, PSL X had reached 1.4 billion total views.

604 million minutes of watch time recorded.

1.29 million new followers gained across official digital channels.

Over 45 million social engagements, reinforcing deep fan interest.

Leveraging platforms like Daraz, Tamasha, Tapmad, Myco, and Begin, PSL X ensured broad accessibility, expanding viewership diversity through multilingual commentary, including Urdu-language coverage.

 

PSL X Standings & Key Performers

Islamabad United leads the PSL X points table with 10 points (5 wins).

Multan Sultans sit at the bottom with 2 points.

Mohammad Rizwan (Multan Sultans) leads batting charts with 346 runs.

Jason Holder (Islamabad United) tops bowling stats with 14 wickets in six matches.

Sahibzada Farhan holds the highest individual score (106 runs) in the tournament.

 

IPL 2025: Bigger numbers, stronger tech integration

Running from March 22 to May 25, IPL 2025—now powered by the newly formed JioStar (Reliance-Disney merger)—has seen even greater digital milestones.

1.37 billion digital views in the first three matches.

Peak digital concurrency hit 34 million.

TV watch time surged to 2,770 crore minutes (27.7 billion minutes).

Digital watch time surpassed 2,186 crore minutes (21.86 billion minutes).

 

Following 51 matches:

Mumbai Indians lead standings with 14 points (7 wins).

Chennai Super Kings struggle at the bottom with just 4 points.

Sai Sudharsan (Gujarat Titans) tops batting charts with 504 runs.

Prasidh Krishna leads bowling statistics with 19 wickets.

Abhishek Sharma (highest individual score: 141 runs) has delivered standout performances.

 

Differing Digital Strategies: PSL X vs. IPL 2025

Both leagues have pioneered distinctive digital approaches:

PSL X emphasizes accessibility, employing multilingual and open-streaming options to enhance inclusivity.

IPL leverages advanced tech, integrating 100 ad-tech tools, QR-based engagement, and gamified advertising for new monetization opportunities.

 

Rise of digital-first cricket consumption

Despite IPL’s unmatched scale, PSL X’s explosive growth signals Pakistan’s emergence as a powerful digital cricket market. Analysts credit smartphone penetration, improved streaming infrastructure, and mobile-first audiences for driving engagement.

With interactive features, real-time fan involvement, and tech-driven broadcasting innovations, cricket consumption is shifting toward a digital-first future.

 

A new era of cricket broadcasting

As PSL X and IPL 2025 continue to evolve, expectations remain high for further digital innovations, setting new industry benchmarks.

With both leagues redefining cricket viewership, the sport’s global footprint is expanding, offering unparalleled experiences for fans. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on how digital platforms continue shaping modern cricket consumption.

JDW continues strong form in President’s Trophy Grade-II

JDW Continues Strong Form in President’s Trophy Grade-II





JDW maintained their impressive run of form in the President’s Trophy Grade-II competition by securing first-inning lead points against PHA Rawalpindi in a drawn match at the National Cricket Ground on Saturday.


This was JDW’s fifth match and the second time they have earned first-innings lead points in a drawn encounter. They have also recorded three outright wins — against OneTen Communication, JJ Consultancy Group, and Army.


Following a washout of the second day due to inclement weather, PHA Rawalpindi resumed their first innings at 220 for nine and were bowled out for 228. Irfan Elahi claimed the final wicket to finish with figures of 3 for 42.


In reply, JDW found themselves in trouble at 119 for five. However, a crucial 110-run sixth-wicket partnership between wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Zulkifal (57) and Haroon Arshad (54) helped the team recover and secure valuable first-innings lead points. JDW were eventually bowled out for 282 in 73.1 overs. Among the top-order contributors, Mohammad Zubair scored 40, while Ali Imran and Mohammad Irfan chipped in with 24 runs each.


For PHA Rawalpindi, left-arm spinner Najam Naseer impressed with figures of 4 for 37 in 15 overs. Abdul Basit took 3 for 60, and Mohammad Saqib claimed 2 for 65.


JDW will play their sixth and final league match against CDA at the Diamond Cricket Ground. The top two teams from each of the four groups will advance to the quarter-finals, with further details to be announced by the PCB next week.


Scores in brief (day 3 of 3):


PHA Rawalpindi 228 all-out, 61.4 overs (Wasim Khan 84, Mohammad Hunain Khan 45, Abdul Basit 23; Irfan Elahi 3-42, Majid Ali 3-50) and 24-0


JDW 282 all-out, 73.1 overs (Mohammad Zulkifal 57, Haroon Arshad 54, Mohammad Zubair 40, Mohammad Junaid 31, Ali Imran 24, Mohammad Irfan 24; Najam Naseer 4-37, Abdul Basit 3-60, Mohammad Saqib 2-65)


Result: Match drawn, JDW get first innings lead points

LRC set to host three exciting cup events on Sunday evening

LRC set for three exciting cup events on Sunday evening




Asher Butt

The Lahore Race Club is set to host its highly anticipated 36th Day Winter Meeting 2024-25, featuring three cup events and two plate races on Sunday evening. The prestigious lineup includes The Peace Cup, The May Cup, and The Labour Day Cup, alongside two Kashmir Plates to complete the race card.

The action-packed event opens with the Peace Cup, (Class-VII Division-VI&VII) – 900 Meters race, where Little Master is the favourite, followed by Advocate as the place contender and Sky Warrior as the fluke pick. Other competitors in the lineup include Usman’s Love, Leo Star, American Star, Gul-e-Kashmir, Thunder Prince (KRC), Deep Impact, I Shall Lead, and Land Cruiser.

The second major event, The May Cup, (Class-VII Division-VI&VII) – 900 Meters race, features a competitive race with Anni Power as the favourite, Drago taking the place spot, and Mafnood JR marked as the fluke select. Additional entries are Thunder Man (KRC), Raftar, Lucky Macs, Star Crown, and Emerging Star.

The third race of the night, The Labour Day Cup, (Class-VI) – 900 Meters race, presents a four-horse lineup with Redrock as the favourite, Dominus as the place contender, and Luna Afzaal as the fluke pick. Brooklyn rounds off the field in this crucial competition.

The fourth race, the Kashmir Plate (Class-VII Division-II&III) – 900 Meters, features Shareeka as the favourite, followed by Vartika in the place position, and Paddington as the fluke contender. The rest of the lineup has Loud And Clear, Moshi Queen, Cinderella’s Dream, Qalandar, Dubawi’s Angel, and Thunder Boy (KRC).

Closing the race card, the fifth and final event  (Class-VII Division-IV&V) – 900 Meters race, will see Rayaan Prince emerge as the favourite, Zaman Sahib placed as the contender, and Yes Commander as the fluke choice. Additional challengers include Zaid Prince, Arcadian, Pocket Power, Dil Nasheen,

Excitement Builds for Lahore Race Club's Premier Event

The 36th Day Winter Meeting promises thrilling contests, high-stakes competition, and intense finishes as racegoers eagerly anticipate the major cup events and plate races. With top-class contenders in action, Lahore’s racing enthusiasts are set for an unforgettable evening.

Friday, May 2, 2025

Resilient PSL X navigates challenges amid record-breaking viewership



Resilient PSL X navigates challenges amid record-breaking viewership



Asher Butt

LAHORE: The Pakistan Super League (PSL) X has set its sights on one of the most challenging cricket windows in its history. With Pakistan hosting the ICC Champions Trophy in February-March 2025, the tournament had to vacate its traditional slot, forcing the PCB to adapt and turn adversity into opportunity.

Global player pool adds star power

Despite scheduling shifts, PSL X secured a strong international player pool, featuring first-time participants such as David Warner, Daryl Mitchell, Finn Allen, Kyle Jamieson, Andries Gous, Mitchell Owen, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Rishad Hussain, Sean Abbott, Adam Milne, and Kane Williamson. Kushal Mendis and Jason Holder also joined PSL for the first time.

Yet, the talent pool was so competitive that big names like Tim Southee, Jimmy Neesham, Ashton Agar, Usman Khawaja, and Reeza Hendricks went unpicked. Even ICC’s top-ranked T20I bowler Akeal Hosein has yet to make an appearance in the playing XI.

Star-studded commentary lineup

PSL X’s commentary panel introduced high-profile names, including former MCC chairman Mark Nicholas, England’s Sir Alistair Cook, and New Zealand’s Martin Guptill, marking their first commentary visit to Pakistan.

Digital viewership soars beyond expectations

While some matches saw smaller stadium crowds, PSL broke all previous digital viewership records.

  • PSL’s live-streaming partners reported an 826.5% increase in views for the first three matches.
  • By the 13th match, total views surpassed one billion.
  • PSL’s own social media platforms reflected unprecedented engagement levels, shifting from millions to breaching the billion-view milestone.

Political tensions impact PSL’s digital presence

Despite the remarkable success, PSL’s social media channels, including some franchise pages, were blocked in India on May 2. When asked, the PCB reiterated its stance that politics should remain separate from cricket.

Franchise license renewals pose new challenges

As PSL X nears its conclusion, key commercial agreements and franchise licenses granted for 10 years are due for renewal.

For the first time in PSL’s history, the PCB and franchises have conflicting interests—while PCB aims to expand the league, franchises may seek to diminish its valuation, as higher valuation means increased franchise fees post-review by an independent expert.

This power struggle has reportedly led some franchises to limit fan engagement, while others have openly criticized PSL branding, potentially undermining the league’s growth.

New innovations elevate fan experience

In response, PCB has introduced several production enhancements, including:

  • Urdu commentary feeds on TV broadcasts and live streams, increasing accessibility.
  • Auto no-ball tracking technology, improving officiating accuracy.
  • Advanced match analysis tools, enhancing viewing experience.
  • Fan raffles in stadiums, offering motorbikes, smartphones, and gift hampers as incentives.

Karachi’s stadium experience needs attention

While most matches have seen packed stadiums, Karachi’s fan experience has emerged as a concern, prompting calls for improvements.

Looking ahead: expansion plans & competitive play

With the final phase of PSL X approaching, the PCB is balancing expansion plans, while franchises must ensure competitive gameplay for a strong finish.