UK Media trounce SJAL in rain-shortened exhibition match

 UK Media trounce SJAL in rain-shortened exhibition match

LAHORE - UK Media XI emerged victorious in a rain-affected exhibition cricket match against SJAL XI at the historic Gaddafi Stadium. The match, held as part of the Pakistan-UK Journalists Friendship Series, showcased not only cricketing skills but also camaraderie and sportsmanship. The event was successfully hosted by the Sports Journalists Association of Lahore (SJAL).

UK Media Bats First:

Batting first, UK Media XI posted a respectable total of 102 runs for the loss of six wickets in their allotted overs. Ghufran Ashraf led the way with a well-made 25 runs, while Abbas Awan (19 runs), Faizan Abbasi (15 runs), and Amir Khan (11 runs) also chipped in with valuable contributions. For SJAL XI, Sanaullah Khan and Ehtesham-ul-Haq picked up two wickets each, with Imran Sohail and Usman Khan claiming one wicket apiece.

Rain Cuts Short SJAL Chase:

In reply, SJAL XI started their chase brightly, racing to 37 runs without a loss in just 3.2 overs. Qadir Khawaja impressed with a quickfire 31 runs, while Abdul Rauf remained unbeaten on 6 runs. However, rain intervened, causing a lengthy delay and ultimately forcing the abandonment of the match due to a waterlogged ground.

Despite the abrupt ending, the curtailed contest provided a thrilling spectacle for players and spectators alike. Following the match, Punjab Sports Minister Faisal Ayub Khokhar, along with dignitaries like PCB Director Media Sami ul Hasan Barni, Lahore Qalandars CEO Atif Rana, and former Pakistani cricket figures, presented awards to the participants.

Minister Khokhar Praises Initiative:

Punjab Sports Minister Faisal Ayub Khokhar expressed his delight at witnessing sports journalists engage in a friendly sporting competition. "It's heartwarming to see journalists taking part in such activities," he said. "I commend the SJAL family, the UK Media team, the Pakistan Cricket Board, and all other stakeholders for organizing this event. I look forward to the next match, and perhaps even showcasing my own cricketing skills!"

Mutual Appreciation:

SJAL President Aqeel Ahmad thanked the UK Media XI for participating in the exhibition match. "Both teams played brilliantly despite the rain-affected outcome," he said. "It was an exciting encounter, and I also appreciate the PCB's support in providing the Gaddafi Stadium as the venue."

UK Media XI Captain Ghulam Hussain Awan reciprocated the appreciation, praising the performance of SJAL XI and expressing gratitude to all involved. "The UK players had a wonderful time participating," he said. "We look forward to hosting SJAL XI for a return match in the UK soon."

The rain-shortened encounter served as a successful display of sportsmanship and camaraderie between Pakistani and UK journalists. The upcoming return match in the UK promises to further strengthen the international media friendship.