Grand National Aviculture Summit 2025: A call for unity and innovation

 

Grand National Aviculture Summit 2025: A call for unity and innovation

 

Asher Butt

The Grand National Aviculture Summit 2025 brought together bird enthusiasts, breeders, and industry stakeholders at the Alhamra Arts Council Lahore, marking the first large-scale gathering of its kind for Pakistan’s lovebird community. Organized by Naveed Sheikh of NS Aviary and his team, the summit aimed to revive confidence, address challenges, and chart a new path forward for aviculture in the country.

 

A landmark gathering for aviculture

For the first time, a fanciers’ group hosted an event of such magnitude, drawing more than 500 participants—men and women alike—from Karachi, Mirpur Khas, Gujranwala, Peshawar, Rawalpindi, Faisalabad, Kasur, and beyond. The event combined technical sessions, passionate speeches, and open discussions on the state of the lovebird industry.

 

Market woes and the push for recovery

Speakers openly acknowledged the recent downturn in the aviculture market, caused largely by an oversupply of low-value commercial birds. They urged breeders to move past short-term thinking and adopt strategies to restore market health.

• Shamsa Hashmi, serving as stage in-charge, highlighted how senior breeders entering the commercial market destabilized prices, advising new breeders to adopt “smart pairing” and continuous upgrading of bird pairs.
• Hanzala Sharif praised Sheikh for taking initiative in tough times, pointing out that international buyers—from Indonesia and China—still recognize Pakistan among the top five countries for quality bird breeding.

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Expert insights and practical advice

Breeding and business strategy

• Umair Chauhan, a veteran breeder of Dun Fallows, emphasized budgeting, purpose-built aviaries, and genetic planning as the foundation for sustainable breeding.
• Ashar Saddique explained the science behind developing new mutations, detailing both natural and transmutation methods of achieving results.
• Fazzy Mahmood advised patience, reminding participants that markets go through cycles of crisis and recovery.

Building identity and integrity

• Mohsin Zafar urged fanciers to create their own unique identities in the market rather than copying others.
• He recounted how breeder Haris Rais, present early at the summit but later absent from stage discussions, once flipped four birds for millions in profit—an anecdote used to stress caution and learning from one’s own mistakes.

 

The role of exports and international potential

Adnan Saleem of Karachi addressed the export angle, explaining how international buyers have specific demands and focus on price and quality. While he avoided disclosing sensitive details about custom clearances, he stressed the need for quality-focused breeding to tap into global markets.

 

Government and community support

Special guest Raees Khan Lodhi of the CCD department lent credibility by framing aviculture as a respectable home-based business—“a business that can be done within chaddar and char deevari.” His remarks reinforced the industry’s potential for youth, women, and families.

 

Gifts, engagement, and recognition

The summit balanced serious discussion with interactive activities. Audience members received prizes, gifts, and lucky draws, ensuring that every attendee left with something in hand. This lighthearted conclusion contrasted with the otherwise intense debates, leaving a sense of inclusivity and shared purpose.

 

Naveed Sheikh’s call to action

Concluding the summit, Naveed Sheikh delivered a powerful address. He:

• Challenged breeders to stop overproducing low-value mutations and instead explore new, high-end mutations like “Sapphire.”
• Called for unity within the community to fight negativity, especially on social media, and announced legal efforts to safeguard the industry’s integrity.
• Revealed plans for an even larger December event, aiming to attract a staggering 50,000 people in the future.

Sheikh’s closing words resonated deeply: “Your presence here is a verdict against those spreading negativity. It is time to identify our mistakes, make amends, and move forward with a positive mindset.”

 

Team effort

The team that led the summit to a rousing success under Naveed Sheikh comprised Talha Rahim, Chaudhary Irfan, Adnan Jameel, Arfan Akram, Rana Shani, Husnain Malik. Jasim Ilyas, Malik Moien. Don Pasha, Khurram Jahangeer, Sami Ullah, Dr Faisal, Samee Khan, Imran Malik, Hamid Ishaq while they has useful partners in Hanzalah Shareef, Ashar Shaddique and its support team included Rana Arsalan, Asif Jawed, Anees Rehman, Ameer Mavia, Ahmed. 

Whereas, it found a valuable patronage from Adnan Saleem (Islamabad), The Aviarist, Adnan Khurram Zia, Pine Nestings's Adil Jadoon, Pakistan Taxidermy Najaf, BGC Labs' Dr Faisal Sameer Khan, Malik Moien, Aun Raza Butt, Mega Birds Farm Arshad Bukhari, Waqas Ahmed (50 buds), Husnain Malik, Mirza Shani (Gakhar), Imran Malik, Waseem Ranjha (mobiles) Khurram Ijaz, and Mrs Maj Aamir (keratin shampoo). 

Central message: Smart pairing, smart future

The Grand National Aviculture Summit 2025 underscored a clear message—Pakistan’s aviculture community cannot afford complacency. By embracing smart breeding, innovation, and collective unity, the lovebird industry can not only recover but thrive, with the potential to become a true export powerhouse.

 

Dubawi’s Angel gallops to LRC's Azadi Cup glory

 

Dubawi’s Angel gallops to LRC's Azadi Cup glory

Asher Butt

A day of surprises unfolded at the Lahore Race Club as Dubawi’s Angel stormed to a glorious victory in the prestigious Azadi Cup, the feature race of the Independence Day meeting. 

Tipped only for a place, the filly defied expectations by galloping home first, leaving National Colour to settle for second and Falco, considered no more than a fluke chance, finishing third. The performance not only crowned Dubawi’s Angel as the star of the day but also underlined racing’s thrilling unpredictability.

Earlier, the opening race set the tone for what was to come. Awais Prince, backed only as an outsider, delivered a surprise victory, while Shahanshah, the pre-race favourite, could manage only second. Daisy Macs, also underestimated, clinched third to round off the upsets. 

In the second race, Raftar proved to be the only favourite who lived up to its billing, storming home as the winner. Behind him, Gennie surprised with a strong second-place finish, while Amigo, another fluke entry, came in third.

The trend of unexpected outcomes continued in the third race. Lucky Macs pulled off another upset, crossing the line ahead of Rashid Prince, who performed as expected but had to settle for second. Macs, to the surprise of many, found his way into third position. 

Then came the headline act—the Azadi Cup—where Dubawi’s Angel’s brilliance stunned the bookmakers and delighted racing enthusiasts. It was a run that transformed her from a place contender into the talk of the paddock.

The final event of the day brought yet another twist. Thunder Boy (Krc), initially tipped for no more than a place, produced a superb run to clinch victory. Deep Seek, backed as a fluke, surged into second, while Song Bird made it to third, completing a day that saw favourites consistently outshone by outsiders.

For punters, it was a challenging afternoon, with upsets overturning many betting slips. But for racegoers, the Azadi Cup meeting was a spectacle brimming with unpredictability and drama. Dubawi’s Angel’s triumph will likely go down as one of the season’s defining moments—a vivid reminder that in horse racing, no favourite is ever guaranteed, and no outsider can be dismissed.The Azadi Cup once again lived up to its billing—not only as a celebration of Pakistan’s independence but also as a showcase of racing unpredictability. For punters, it was a bruising day, but for racing enthusiasts, it was a spectacle brimming with surprises.

Dubawi’s Angel’s performance may well be remembered as the defining upset of the season—a reminder that at the races, no favourite is safe, and no outsider should be underestimated.

Selectors put faith in new blood as Babar, Rizwan face reality check

 

Selectors put faith in new blood as Babar, Rizwan face reality check

Asher Butt

Pakistan cricket has officially entered a new chapter. The chief selector Aaqib Javed and head coach Mike Hesson have chosen to look beyond the old guard, leaving out former skipper Babar Azam and wicket-keeper Mohammad Rizwan from the T20 squad for the Asia Cup and Tri-Series. Their message was blunt: selection now belongs to form and performance, not reputation.

Facing the media, Aaqib made it clear that the selectors were unapologetic about the decision. “We are backing players who are delivering right now,” he said, pointing to the rise of Saim Ayub, Fakhar Zaman, and Sahibzada Farhan as the nucleus of Pakistan’s batting future. Saim’s consistency over the past year and Farhan’s breakthrough form were highlighted as examples of the transition taking shape.

Hesson chipped in with perspective, noting Pakistan’s recent resurgence in T20 cricket — winning six of their last nine matches, and losing two by the barest of margins. “This side is competitive and capable. Even in the games we lost, we were in positions to win,” he explained.

That didn’t mean Babar and Rizwan were banished forever. Aaqib insisted the door remains open. “No selector can put a full stop on anyone’s career. The rule is simple: whoever performs, plays,” he said, confirming that both stars continue to train at the National Cricket Academy under the guidance of coaches.

The selectors also doubled down on the inclusion of Mohammad Haris despite recent criticism. Armed with stats, Aaqib defended him: a strike rate of 171 and a batting average close to 30 across the last three series. “For a keeper-batsman, those are world-class numbers. What else do you want?” he asked.

Looking ahead, the India clash on September 14 looms large. Aaqib was bullish: “The India-Pakistan game is the biggest in world cricket. Every player rises for it. I believe this squad can beat any side.” Hesson, meanwhile, focused on tactical concerns, especially Pakistan’s readiness to handle spin-friendly conditions in Sharjah. “That’s why the middle order is crucial — not just survival, but pressure-building,” he explained.

What’s unmistakable is the philosophy driving this squad: data-driven selection, aggressive strike rates, and adaptability across conditions. The Asia Cup and Tri-Series are immediate priorities, but the eye is firmly on the 2026 World Cup.

For Pakistan fans, the message is clear: the future is now. Saim, Sahibzada, Haris and company have the chance to step out of the shadows of Babar and Rizwan — and nothing would announce that shift louder than a victory over India.

 

Pakistan’s T20I squad announced with surprising omissions and questionable selections

Asher Butt

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Sunday unveiled a 17-member squad for two upcoming assignments – the UAE T20I Tri-Series (August 29 to September 7) and the Asia Cup 2025 (September 9 to 28). While the announcement carried the usual excitement, it also triggered debates, with several glaring omissions and eyebrow-raising inclusions sparking concerns about Pakistan’s approach ahead of two major tournaments.

Major stars left out

The biggest talking point is the absence of four established names: Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Shadab Khan, and Naseem Shah.

• Babar Azam, often hailed as Pakistan’s batting linchpin, has been dropped in what appears to be a decision driven more by politics than performance. His exclusion leaves a massive void in Pakistan’s top order.

• Mohammad Rizwan, despite his reputation as one of the most consistent T20 performers globally, has been sidelined. Interestingly, he remains ODI captain, indicating a possible format-specific strategy.

• Shadab Khan misses out due to a shoulder injury, a significant blow given his dual role as a leg-spinner and reliable lower-order batsman.

• Naseem Shah, the young pace spearhead, is another surprise absentee, raising questions about the selectors’ priorities.

Key inclusions and surprises

The squad is a mix of familiar names, recalls, and experiments.

• Salman Ali Agha retains the captaincy after leading Pakistan to a 2-1 T20I series victory over the West Indies earlier this year. His leadership, coupled with his batting and part-time spin, makes him a central figure.

• Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf return to anchor the pace attack, while Mohammad Wasim Jr. has been rewarded for his domestic form. However, the recall of Hesson Ali – despite inconsistent recent performances – is questionable.

• The batting unit welcomes back Fakhar Zaman, whose inclusion seems to hinge more on past glories than current form. Alongside him, Saim Ayub and Mohammad Haris offer youthful energy.

• The middle order, however, looks shaky with selections like Hussain Talat and Khushdil Shah, both of whom have struggled to cement their places in the past. The choice of Hesson Nawaz as an additional wicket-keeping option further complicates Pakistan’s planning.

• Among the bowlers, the selectors have opted for a spin-heavy strategy. Alongside Mohammad Nawaz, leg-spinners Abrar Ahmed and Sufyan Muqeem feature, though the abundance of leg-spin at the expense of left-arm orthodox variety raises tactical concerns.

Question marks over selection philosophy

The inclusion of relatively unproven names like Salman Mirza and Sahibzada Farhan suggests an experimental approach, but doing so in back-to-back high-stakes tournaments may backfire.

The broader issue is a lack of clarity in selection philosophy. Pakistan appear caught between rebuilding for the future and chasing short-term results. By dropping proven performers such as Babar and Rizwan while retaining underperforming veterans, the selectors risk unsettling the squad’s balance.

Pakistan’s chances going forward

Without the stabilizing presence of Babar and Rizwan, Pakistan’s batting looks vulnerable against quality bowling attacks. The imbalance in spin options and over-reliance on inconsistent middle-order batsmen could further hamper their campaign.

The team’s fortunes will likely depend on how quickly youngsters like Saim Ayub, Mohammad Haris, and Wasim Jr. can adapt, and whether the leadership group can cover for the missing experience.

At present, this squad feels like a product of circumstance and politics rather than pure cricketing merit – a risky gamble ahead of two tournaments where Pakistan cannot afford to stumble.

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Pakistan’s 17-member T20I squad

Salman Ali Agha (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hesson Ali, Hesson Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Haris (wicket-keeper), Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Salman Mirza, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Sufyan Muqeem.

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Tri-Series Schedule (Sharjah Cricket Stadium)

• 29 August – Afghanistan v Pakistan – 7pm

• 30 August – UAE v Pakistan – 7pm

• 1 September – UAE v Afghanistan – 7pm

• 2 September – Pakistan v Afghanistan – 7pm

• 4 September – Pakistan v UAE – 7pm

• 5 September – Afghanistan v UAE – 7pm

• 7 September – Final – 7pm

Asia Cup 2025 (Pakistan Fixtures – Dubai International Cricket Stadium)

• 12 September – Oman v Pakistan – 6pm

• 14 September – India v Pakistan – 6pm

• 17 September – UAE v Pakistan – 6pm

• 20–26 September – Super Fours (Abu Dhabi & Dubai)

• 28 September – Final – 6pm

Azadi Cup set to electrify Lahore Race Club’s Sunday card

Azadi Cup set to electrify Lahore Race Club’s Sunday card

Asher Butt 

The Lahore Race Club (LRC) is gearing up for a thrilling Sunday evening as the Azadi Cup takes centre stage at the 11th Day Summer Meeting 2025. Marking the spirit of Independence Day, this prestigious event will headline a competitive card that also features four Lala Musa Plates, each set over a lightning-fast 1000 metres.

Fresh faces in the spotlight

The curtain rises with the Lala Musa Plate (Class VII, Division VI & VII), a maiden race offering eight hopefuls a shot at their first win. Shahanshah carries favourite status, with Dubai Love tipped for place honours and Awais Prince marked as the fluke. Also in the mix are Sea of Class, Mehsi Babu, Gallop In Glory, SG Princess, and Daisy Macs — all ready to seize their maiden glory.

Nine in the hunt

Another Class VII, Division VI & VII sprint follows, with Raftar leading the betting charts. Bill Gates and Amigo look strong for place and fluke positions respectively, while Gennie, Jalal Prince, Al Mabrook, Gul-e-Kashmir, Leo Star, and I Shall Lead add depth to this evenly matched contest.

Middle card momentum

The third race brings together seven contenders in Class VII, Division V & VI. Yes Commander is the hot pick, though Rashid Prince and Pocket Power could challenge. Macs, Haseeb Thrill, Latin Strom, and Lucky Macs round off a field where surprises are never far away.

The Azadi Cup showpiece

The day’s main attraction, the Azadi Cup (Class VII, Division I, II & III), showcases some of the LRC’s best sprinters. Yesteryear is the firm favourite, with Dubawi’s Angel and Falco tipped for place and fluke. Al Shouq, National Colour, Golden Heart, and Tahira ensure a star-studded lineup for this special Independence Day dash.

The grand finale

Closing the day is a Class VII, Division III & IV contest featuring six runners. Nawab Prince is fancied to win, chased by Thunder Boy (KRC) and Deep Seek. Desert Parri, Song Bird, and Monsoon Mischief will look to spoil the party in what promises to be a blistering finish.

With every race a sprint, expect tight finishes, tactical riding, and plenty of patriotic spirit. The LRC’s tradition of honouring national occasions with competitive racing remains strong — and this year’s Azadi Cup promises a celebration on and off the track.

Breaking barriers: The rise of Maidah Asim, Pakistan’s second female jockey

Breaking barriers: The rise of Maidah Asim, Pakistan’s second female jockey

 

Asher Butt

In the high-adrenaline world of horse racing, where speed, skill, and split-second decisions decide victory, Maidah Asim has emerged as a trailblazer. At just a year and eight months into professional training, she has galloped into the record books as Pakistan’s second licensed female jockey — a title that comes with grit, sacrifice, and an unyielding drive to prove herself.

 

From childhood rides to racing glory

Maidah’s connection with horses began long before she understood the concept of professional sports. "I started riding when I was around four or five years old," she recalls. "It was more of a fun activity back then." The turning point came when she joined the Lahore Race Club (LRC) for formal training. Just two weeks into the program, she was captivated by the world of competitive racing — the rush of the track, the roar of the crowd, and the unique bond with her horse. Watching the Derby 2024 sealed her decision: she was going to become a jockey.

 

The idea wasn’t entirely her own. "Honestly, it was my father’s idea from the start," Maidah admits. His (father Asim Shahzad Khan, a businessman and a prominent figure of the Lahore Race Club) encouragement, along with the constant motivation from her family, helped her persevere through challenges and reach the milestone of becoming Pakistan’s second female jockey.

 

The gruelling path to the starting gate

The journey was far from easy. Training demanded not only skill but also extreme physical discipline. Weight management became a daily battle. Before her debut race on 10th August 2025, Maidah went on a drastic regimen to meet race requirements — consuming only ORS water and lemon water for days while training in the sweltering afternoon heat, sometimes wearing a sauna suit. "It was mentally and physically exhausting," she says, "but it taught me discipline and commitment."

 

Injuries also tested her resolve. Periods of bed rest for neck and back pain could have ended her career before it began. Instead, they became fuel for her ambition. "Not once did I think of quitting," she insists. "Those moments made me even more determined."

 

Making history on the track

Her first declared race was a defining moment — the culmination of years of preparation. Standing at the starting gate, she silently recited Ayat al-Kursi and Darood Shareef, a practice passed on to her by Alishba Mohsin, Pakistan’s first female jockey and now a mentor and friendly rival. The race itself was a blur of adrenaline, strategy, and instinct. Crossing that finish line wasn’t just a personal victory; it was a symbolic stride for every Pakistani girl who dreams of breaking into male-dominated arenas.

 

Breaking stereotypes and facing challenges

While Maidah hasn’t faced open hostility, she’s aware of undercurrents of jealousy and skepticism. Many in Pakistan still know little about horse racing, and female jockeys are rare enough to be treated as novelties. She takes such reactions in stride, choosing to focus on performance rather than criticism. "The biggest misconception is that women can’t control strong horses," she says. "Technique, balance, and connection matter far more than brute strength."

 

A vision beyond personal glory

Maidah’s ambitions stretch beyond her own career. She advocates for increased media coverage of horse racing — particularly women’s events — and believes that exposure from a young age is key. She suggests that institutions like the LRC arrange school and university trips to races, much like her own formative experiences.

 

She’s also vocal about the need for sponsorships to support training, equipment, and travel expenses. "Without financial backing, it’s hard for female jockeys to progress," she notes.

 

Her ultimate dream? To race internationally and perhaps face off against her idol, Hollie Doyle, one of the world’s leading female jockeys. Alongside her competitive goals, she hopes to mentor young women entering the sport, passing on the guidance and faith that shaped her own journey.

 

The road ahead

With her debut already behind her, Maidah is hungry for more victories — and more firsts. She envisions a future where all-female races are a regular feature in Pakistan, where representation isn’t an exception but the norm. "This is just the beginning," she declares. "I want to show every girl out there that no dream is too big — no matter how many barriers stand in your way."

 

Maidah Asim’s story isn’t just about horse racing. It’s about courage, perseverance, and challenging tradition. As she rides forward, she carries with her the hopes of a new generation — one that refuses to be told what they can or cannot achieve. 

Cards, competition, and champions: A thrilling day at Lahore Gymkhana Club

Cards, competition, and champions: A thrilling day at Lahore Gymkhana Club

Asher Butt

There's something magical about the focused silence of a bridge tournament – the gentle shuffling of cards, the occasional murmur of strategic discussion, and the palpable tension as players calculate their next move. Yesterday's Open Pairs tournament at the historic Lahore Gymkhana Club delivered all of this and more.

When strategy meets skill

The August 14th Open Pairs event brought together some of Lahore's finest bridge minds for what turned out to be an absolutely riveting competition. With two distinct sections running simultaneously – East/West and North/South – the tournament floor buzzed with the kind of intellectual energy that only serious card players can generate.

The numbers tell the story

North/South Section Drama:

The North/South pairs delivered some truly spectacular play, with Waqaruddin Vicky and Air Commodore Sadfar, whose military precision translated beautifully to the bridge table was absolutely dominating, the field. Their 263/55-point performance wasn't just impressive – it was masterful. Starting strong with 146.50 points in the first session, they absolutely crushed the second session with 118.20  points, leaving their competitors in awe.

Hot on their heels were the experienced duo of Zia Hyder and Ahsan Qureshi with 257.95 points. The battle for third place was equally intense, Sajid Nabi Malik and Rashid Nabi Malik with 120.45 and 119/50 sessions secured the bronze position at 239.95 points.

East/West section excitement:

The East/West section proved equally competitive, though with a different flavor of drama. Hamza and Shani emerged victorious with 264.70 points, showcasing the kind of consistent play that wins tournaments. Their steady performance across both sessions (118.20 in the first, 146.50 in the second) demonstrated that sometimes, consistency trumps brilliance.

Arslan M. and Khalid M. fought valiantly for second place with 249.70 points, while Farrukh Liaqat and Junaid Said rounded out the podium positions with a solid 240.90-point performance.

More than just cards

What struck me most about yesterday's tournament wasn't just the quality of play – though that was undeniably high – but the camaraderie among competitors. Bridge has this unique ability to bring together people from all walks of life, united by their love for strategic thinking and mental challenge.

The Lahore Gymkhana Club, with its rich history and elegant ambiance, provided the perfect backdrop for this intellectual sporting event. The club's commitment to maintaining high standards in recreational activities was evident in every detail, from the perfectly organized scoring system to the quality of the playing environment.

Recognition where it's due

True to the club's tradition of excellence, cash prizes and trophies were awarded to the top four pairs in each section. It's this kind of recognition that keeps the competitive spirit alive and encourages players to continuously improve their game.

Watching the prize ceremony, you could see the genuine joy on the winners' faces – not just for the monetary rewards, but for the acknowledgment of their skill and dedication to the game.

Looking ahead

Events like these remind us why bridge continues to thrive in an age of digital entertainment. There's something irreplaceable about the human element – reading your opponents, communicating with your partner through subtle cues, and the satisfaction of executing a perfectly planned strategy.

For those who missed this tournament, keep an eye out for the next one. Whether you're a seasoned player or someone curious about the game, the Lahore Gymkhana Club's bridge events offer a perfect blend of serious competition and social engagement.

Until the next deal is shuffled, the cards have spoken – and they've declared yesterday's tournament an unqualified success.

Interested in joining future bridge tournaments at Lahore Gymkhana Club? Contact the club for upcoming event schedules and membership information.

Tournament Results

East/West Section Winners:

1st Place: Hamza/Shani - 264.70 points

2nd Place: Arslan M./Khalid M. - 249/70 points

3rd Place: Farrukh Liaqat/Junaid Said - 240/95 points

4th Place: Farooq Alvi/Sarfraz - 229.86 points

North/South Section Winners:

1st: Waqaruddin VICKY/Air Cdr Sadfar - 263.55 points

2nd: Zia Hyder/Ahsan Qureshi - 257.95 points

3rd: Sajid Nabi Malik/Rashid Nabi Malik - 239.95 points

4th: Rubina Agha/Ghias Malik 238.75 points