Leisure Trip sneaks away with 1000 Guineas

Leisure Trip sneaks away with 1000 Guineas

Asher Butt

In a spectacular display of equine prowess, Leisure Trip secured a thumping victory in the highly esteemed 1000 Guineas at the Lahore Race Club on Sunday, firmly establishing itself as a dominant force in the racing world.

Besides, the Lahore Racecourse was treated to a day of exhilarating races on Sunday, with both predictable victors and astonishing upsets keeping the crowd on the edge of their seats.

Leisure Trip, as expected, emerged victorious in the prestigious 1000 Guineas, solidifying its dominance in the equine sport. In the Ch Ahmed Saeed Memorial Cup, favourite Last Emperor lived up to the hype, but the podium witnessed unexpected thrills with Samson and Hizar snatching second and third place.

But surprises were the theme of the day. Al Adba sprung the first shock by winning the opening race, outpacing Black Master and Abdullah Champion. While Tully Princess stunned the crowds by galloping from behind to claim victory in the third, stunned by winning the third race, with Zaman Sahib drifting to second place.

In the fourth race, Generosity proved its surprise potential by neck-and-neck win over favourite Codes Cracker. And Winning Colour securing unexpected second and third positions.

The Anarkali Cup saw another delightful upset as Golden Market surged ahead in a late charge, leaving Enchanting One and Sincere Approach in its wake. The eighth and ninth races also had unexpected victors - Goodpay Master and Bella Veste, respectively.

The final race of the day, the Khyber Cup, delivered one last twist. Adaar, contrary to predictions, emerged triumphant, while Alpha and Naymar surprised everyone with their second and third-place finishes.

Merchant Of Venus met expectations in the second race, overcoming Gifts Of Gold and Abdullah Love.

In the eighth race, Goodpay Master, as anticipated, emerged as the winner after a close tussle with Hamas, with Mughal-e-Azam securing the third position.

The ninth race witnessed a surprise performance from Bella Veste, with Mera Gondal and Husn-e-Baharan claiming unexpected second and third positions.

Zaka resigns as PCB Management Committee Chairman: A Troubled Tenure Ends

 Zaka resigns as PCB Management Committee Chairman

A Troubled Tenure Ends

Asher Butt

In a move that casts further uncertainty over the future of Pakistani cricket, Zaka Ashraf resigned as Chairman of the PCB Management Committee on Friday.

This development came after a tumultuous nine-month tenure marred by controversy, internal clashes, and disappointing on-field results.

After replacing Najam Sethi in July 2023, Ashraf initially brought a sense of stability to the PCB. He oversaw the conclusion of major tournaments like the Asia Cup and ODI World Cup, albeit without reaching the desired outcomes. However, cracks began to appear soon after.

The announcement came amidst a bulk of rifts and tiff. However, Ashraf expressed his commitment to the betterment of cricket but cited challenges that made it untenable for him to continue in the role. "I was working for the betterment of cricket, but it is not possible for us to work in this way," he stated during the committee meeting. He went on to say, "Now it is up to Prime Minister [Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar], whomever he nominates [will take my place]."

Pakistan's dismal performance under Ashraf's leadership, culminating in consecutive series losses against Australia and New Zealand, intensified calls for change. The team's struggles were compounded by the axing of former captain Babar Azam and subsequent leadership shake-up, with Shan Masood and Shaheen Afridi taking over in different formats.

While some attributed the team's woes to cricketing reasons, whispers of internal rifts within the PCB also emerged. Reports surfaced of a strained relationship between Ashraf and the Ministry of Inter-Provincial Coordination (IPC), further hindering his ability to function effectively.

Adding to the turmoil, a legal hurdle cropped up when Ashraf's eligibility for the Chairman position was questioned due to the absence of a mandatory BA degree. This fueled speculation about his potential disqualification, adding another layer of uncertainty to the PCB's future.

Amidst escalating internal friction and dwindling public confidence, Ashraf ultimately decided to step down. Citing his inability to function under existing restrictions, he tendered his resignation and relinquished his BoG membership, effectively removing himself from the PCB chairmanship race.

With Ashraf's departure, the PCB finds itself at a crossroads. The task of appointing a new Chairman, ensuring smooth functioning of the organization, and reviving the ailing national team's fortunes remain immediate challenges. Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar now faces the crucial task of choosing a competent successor who can navigate the turbulent waters of Pakistani cricket.

Before the announcement of the resignation, fourth PCB Management Committee meeting held was held here at the National cricket Academy. Zaka chaired the meeting. Among the ten members of the committee, one member, Khurram Karim Somroo joined the meeting online.

The remaining nine members –Kalim Ullah Khan, Ashfaq Akhtar, Muhammad Mussadiq Islam, Azmat Pervez, Zaheer Abbas, Khawaja Nadeem, Mustafa Ramday, ASC, Zulfiqar Malik and Zaka Ashraf (chair) – were present in person.

Members were briefed on PCB affairs and financial matters. The CFO presented periodic Management Accounts and financial projections for the remaining current fiscal year. Zaka provided a summary of the milestones achieved during the tenure of the current MC which was constituted in the first week of July. These include:

There is a significant increase in PCB contributions from the ICC

BCCI delegation visited Pakistan for first time since 2008

Pakistan won the Emerging Asia Cup (Pakistan Shaheens) and away Test series against Sri Lanka

Pakistan regained the No.1 ODI spot in ICC rankings

Pakistan hosted Asia Cup after 15 years

Up to 80 women's domestic contracts offered for the first time

Pakistan women won the T20I series against South Africa 3-0 for the first time

Pakistan women's team won T20I series against New Zealand for the first time

Media Rights and Live-streaming Rights for HBL Pakistan Super League 9 & 10 were tendered and yielded the highest offers ever

Service Level Agreement signed with DineticQ, subsidiary of Loughborough University for integration of science, artificial intelligence, and bio mechanics in Pakistan’s cricket ecosystem

MoU executed with Middlesex County Cricket Club (MCCC) for collaboration on multiple projects for cricket development

Understanding reached with Cricket Australia for player development, strategic alliance between HBL PSL-BBL, Curator training programs, and reciprocal tours for Men and Women junior cricket

He thanked members of the MC, the PCB management, and staff for their support during this tenure. Members of the MC and the PCB management expressed their gratitude to the Chairman MC for his leadership.

At the end of the meeting, Zaka Ashraf announced that he had decided to tender his resignation as chairman and member of the MC to the honourable Patron Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar.

In his concluding remarks, Zaka Ashraf, thanked the honourable Patron PCB for the confidence and trust reposed by him and extended his best wishes and prayers for the betterment of Pakistan and Pakistan cricket.

LRC features three cup events and five plate races today

 LRC features three cup events and five plate races today

 

Asher Butt

The 20th Day Winter Meeting 2023-24 of the Lahore Race Club promises an exciting lineup with three cup events and five plate races scheduled for the day (Sunday). The racecourse will come alive with the Winter Cup, Ravi Cup, and Sultan Mehmood Ghaznavi Cup, in addition to other competitive races.

The Ravi Cup, considered the most significant among the featured races, will witness 11 four-year-old contenders vying for victory. This race holds particular importance as it serves as a stepping stone for ponies aspiring to participate in major upcoming races such as the 1000 Guineas and the Pakistan Derby. The 1.8 miles run will test the participants' endurance.

The day's racing action kicks off with the Fair Magic Plate of Class-VII and Division-VI&VII. The race, covering a distance of 1000 meters, features a competitive field of 15 contenders. Notable participants include Zarbi, Salaar, and Top Secret, with the potential for surprises from other strong contenders like Abdullah Love, Malik Pence, Super Power, Mafnood JR, Mister Macs, Pride of Chandra, Kara Macs, Anni Power, Lalay De Jan, Forsythia, Gifts of Gold and Merchant of Venus.

The Winter Cup, the second race of the day, is a Class-VII and Division-VI&VII event with 18 participants. Key contenders include Yes Commander and Awaz-e-Sehar, with potential surprises from Dill Lagi and others like Al Karam, Black Master, Royal Macs, Champion Pence, Serial Killer, Dur-e-Adan, Abdullah Champion, Land Cruiser, Flokey, Tady Don, Zubania, Sultana, Gujjar Queen and Olympic Queen.

The third plate race, a Class-VII & Division-II,III&IV event, features 11 contenders. Big Dream is expected to lead, with challenges from Winning Colours and the potential surprise entry Samore City. The field also includes Lady Jasmine, Danzora, Murtajtz Al Rai, Zaman Sahib, Dictator, Paddington, Mark My Words, and Sehar.

In the fourth Class-VII and Division-II race, Addar is the favorite, likely contending with Casper, while Sanwali Saloni introduces an element of surprise. Other participants include Rebirth, Husn-e-Baharan, Ethel, Stardom, Western Lady, Flying Arrow (KRC) , and Arrogate.

The much-anticipated Ravi Cup, the fifth race of the day, involves 11 four-year-olds. Jim And Tonic is a frontrunner, facing competition from Last Emperor and potential surprises from Spartacus, Farhan King, Notorious One, Ex Gambler (Krc), Haar, Redrock, Kingpin (KRC), Glorious One, and Shakira.

The sixth race, the Sultan Mehmood Ghaznavi Cup, features six Class-VI and Division III&IV competitors. Al Ravi is the top contender, with Macs King considered a close rival. The race may see surprises from Khokhar One and others in the field are Punch Line (KRC), Kuwait Edition (KRC) and Victoria (KRC).

In the seventh race, a Class-VII and Division I event, Sargent is favored to win among five competitors, while Bella Veste is a likely contender for the place, and Sardar may bring in a surprise. Zindabad, and Zarpash are the other two challengers.

The final race of the day, a Class-VII and Division-II selection, includes 14 participants in their Maiden run. Phantom is the frontrunner, challenged by Flight Line, and potential surprises from Public Star and The field also includes Dominus, Rock N Wild, Stealing Beauty, Great One, Hussan, Treasure Top, Baby Max, Queen of Hearts, Polite Applause, Good Paymaster and Moon One.

Upsets galore at LRC: Dil Awaiz and Samson steal the show

Upsets galore at LRC: Dil Awaiz and Samson steal the show

 

 

Asher Butt

 

The Lahore Race Club witnessed a day filled with unexpected outcomes as underdogs Dil Awaiz and Samson claimed victory in the Makhdumzada Syed Hassan Mahmud Memorial New Year Cup and the January Cup, respectively.

 

The day at Lahore Race Club showcased the unpredictability of horse racing, keeping spectators on the edge of their seats with unexpected outcomes and surprising victories.

 

In a surprising turn of events, Dil Awaiz emerged triumphant in the New Year Cup, a Term Race for 3-year-olds, leaving the favorites trailing behind. Verde One secured the second position, while Golden Market surprisingly settled for third.

 

The January Cup followed a similar pattern of upsets, with Samson defying the odds to outshine Leisure Trip, the favorite, who finished as the runner-up. Macs King secured an unexpected third position.

 

The opening race witnessed Handsome, an underdog, crossing the finish line in first place, while Mister Macs, the anticipated second, lived up to expectations. Galileo Lady surprised the onlookers by clinching the third spot.

 

Shobika, the favorite in the second race, justified its standing by securing a trouble-free victory. Top Secret provided some competition but settled for second place, while Tully Princess, expected to perform better, ended up in the third position.

 

Husn-e-Baharan, initially considered a likely contender for the runner-up position, surprised everyone by claiming victory in the third race. Zaman Sahib secured an unexpected second place, while the favorite Code Crackers galloped to a surprising third position.

 

In the fourth race, Alpha surpassed MarryShah Star to claim victory, leaving Electra in the third position—a surprising turn of events.

 

Veste One's last-minute surge in the fifth race secured a well-deserved victory, with Golden Joy and Echelon settling for second and third positions, respectively.

 

In a stunning upset, Hizar seized the top spot in the eighth race, breaking Sergeant's winning streak. Shakira added to the surprises by claiming the third position.

 

The final race saw Desert Crown astonishingly claiming the crown, leaving contenders Prodigal Rain and Queen Of Ameer in the second and third positions, respectively.

Macs King surprises with Ghaznavi Cup win amidst day of upsets

Macs King surprises with Ghaznavi Cup win amidst day of upsets

Asher Butt

The Lahore Race Club witnessed a day filled with unexpected outcomes and thrilling upsets as Macs King produced the biggest surprise, claiming victory in the Ghaznavi Cup. The race day unfolded with surprises in all six races, keeping spectators on the edge of their seats.

The Lahore Race Club's race day proved to be a rollercoaster of unexpected results, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of horse racing. Macs King's unexpected triumph in the Ghaznavi Cup will undoubtedly be remembered as the highlight of a day brimming with thrilling upsets.

The Ghaznavi Cup win was the big shocker. Macs King's triumph in the Ghaznavi Cup dethroned the expected favorite, Sanwali Saloni, relegating the latter to second place. Macs King's impressive performance marked a significant upset in the main featured race.

Zarbi initiated the day's surprises by clinching victory in the first race, defying expectations. Dill Lagi securing the second position and Mister Macs occupying third added to the unexpected turn of events.

Tully Princess emerged as the surprise winner of the second race, while Top Secret's unexpected placement and Salaar's third position added to the day's astonishments.

In the third race, Mumraiz Love, expected to take a prominent position, triumphed, surpassing the favorite Shobika. Pride Of Chandari added to the surprise element by securing the third position.

The fourth race witnessed Emerging Star defying the odds to secure a surprising victory. Samore City's unexpected second-place finish and Winning Colours being pushed to third marked another upset.

There was a gigantic upset in Ghaznavi Cup. The main event of the day, the Ghaznavi Cup, delivered a gigantic upset with Macs King overpowering Sanwali Saloni to seize the first position. Adira, considered an underdog, secured the third spot.

The final race showcased the emergence of new stars, with Murad, Striking Killer, and Golden Joy claiming the top three positions, providing an exciting conclusion to a day filled with surprises.

2023: A year of triumphs and records for Pakistan sporting stars

2023: A year of triumphs and records for Pakistan sporting stars

Asher Butt

The past 12 months of 2023 was a stellar year for Pakistani sports, with young athletes blazing trails across diverse disciplines. From the hallowed courts of tennis to the treacherous slopes of Mount Everest, Pakistan saw its sons and daughters etching their names in record books and raising the national flag high.

A Glimpse into Pakistan's Sporting Odyssey:

The year began with Aqeel Khan domination of the National Ranking Tennis, while Sultan Muhammad conquered the Snooker Championship. Badminton saw Mahoor Shahzad bag two titles, and 14-year-old Ishaath Amjad aced a hole-in-one in golf.

The month followed saw Pakistan clinched the West Asia Baseball Cup, Muhammad Ali Shah Jr. boxed his way to a championship title, and Haroon Khan of Rangers Punjab brought home a bronze medal in Taekwondo. Muniba Ali's historic centuries in T20Is and the World Cup further illuminated the year.

Inam-ul-Haq reigned supreme in the Quaid-e-Azam Tennis in March, Shahir triumphed in the Boxing Council Asian title fight, and Pakistani-American runners Dr. Salman Khan and Hamid Butt shone in the Tokyo Marathon. Mariam of KPT claimed the first gold in the National Boxing Championship, while Hanan Shahid received the Emerging Player of Asia 2022 award in hockey.

E-gamer Arslan Ash emerged victorious with Tekken 7 title resonated across the digital arena, while Shahzeb Rind's Karate Combat League win in America added another feather to the cap. Mountaineer Shahroz Kafsif's ascent of 11 peaks solidified his place as the world's youngest achiever. Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan's record-breaking 50+ partnership in cricket further cemented their prowess.

Arslan Ash in the following month continued his dominance, claiming the Combo Breaker title. Pakistan reached the Junior Hockey Asia Cup final, and Abdul Joshi became the eighth Pakistani to scale Mount Everest.

June was the month of triumph for Ahsan Ramzan who claimed the Under-21 Asian Snooker Championship title and Usman Wazir's boxing title defence were testaments to Pakistani grit. Special Olympics athletes brought home 10 gold medals, showcasing their indomitable spirit.

Naila Kayani's ascent of Nanga Parbat marked the start of July, while Pakistani gamers' success at the Saudia Gaming Festival, Homeless World Cup victory in football, and Hamza Khan's historic squash championship win after 37 years were moments of immense pride.

Dilawar Khan's World Martial Arts Games gold medal, Arshad Nadeem's silver in the World Athletics Championship, Taimur Khan's boxing triumph over an Indian rival, and the horsemen's Mongolian Derby victory marked a month of sporting glory of August.

Pakistan's squash victory over India in the Asian Games though not the greatest but was one of the big achievements of the yar that came in September. The U-19 football team's international win after 12 years, Mohsin Nawaz's European Championship silver in long-range shooting, Anita Kareem's MMA success in Thailand, and the World Jujitsu Championship gold medal further enriched the sporting tapestry.

Sarbaz Khan climbed 13 8,000m peaks, Naila Kayani's 10-peak feat, Hyder Ali's Para Asian Games gold, and Abdullah Shafiq's record-breaking debut in the World Cup opener were testaments to Pakistani athletes' tenacity.

In was November by when Shaheen Shah Afridi's inclusion among the fastest bowlers to 100 wickets was witnessed, Babar Masih's third consecutive World Snooker Championship win was another feature of Pakistan sporting triumphs, the Sultan Johor Hockey Cup victory, and Fakhar Zaman's record-equaling centuries in ODIs added more chapters to the sporting saga.

Even the final month of the year was not lacking in achievements. Pakistan former captain and world’s number batter Babar Azam marked 13,000 international runs milestone to become the 5^th Pakistani to have the feat.

Usman Wazir's victory in the international ranking fight underscored his determination and skill, earning him recognition on the global stage. Ryan Zaman clinched a silver medal in the World Junior Squash Championship, highlighting his talent and potential in the world of squash.

Saud Shakeel set a unique Test record, leaving an indelible mark in the cricketing annals with his exceptional performance.

As only cricket is overviewed, it captured the highs and lows, the controversies and victories, and the changing tides of the team's performance throughout the year. Here are some key takeaways:

Ups:

Achieved top rankings in ODIs and Test Championship before Australia series. Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi topped ICC batting and bowling rankings in ODIs. Women's team achieved historic T20 victories against South Africa and New Zealand. Whitewashed Sri Lanka in Test series and won ODI series against New Zealand and Afghanistan.

Downs:

Disappointing performances in Asia Cup and World Cup, failing to reach semifinals in both. Humiliating defeats against India in both Asia Cup and World Cup. Loss of Test series in Australia. Series of controversies involving selectors, captaincy, and leaked private chats.

Changes:

Inzamamul Haq stepped down as chief selector. Babar Azam stepped down as captain in all formats. Shan Masood and Shaheen Afridi appointed new captains for Test and T20I formats, respectively. Wahab Riaz appointed new chief selector. New team management announced for Australia tour.

Overall, 2023 was a mixed bag for Pakistan cricket. While there were some significant achievements, particularly in ODIs and the women's team, the disappointment of mega-events and persistent controversies cannot be ignored. As the team heads into 2024 with new leadership and challenges, it will be interesting to see how they address their weaknesses and build on their strengths.

As the curtain falls on year gone by, it will be remembered as a golden period for Pakistani sports. The achievements of these young athletes, who defied limitations and scaled impossible heights, have etched their names in history. With anticipation and excitement, the sports community eagerly awaits the unfolding of further triumphs and records by these rising stars in 2024.

However, the year had accomplishments in individual games but it was opposite in team sports. Still 2023 will undoubtedly be reminisced as a year where young athletes defied limitations, scaled impossible heights, and engraved their names in antiquity. Now the anticipation for further triumphs and records by these rising stars is palpable.