Pakistan baseball prepare to hold International League

 Pakistan baseball prepare to hold International League

Asher Butt

 

Pakistan's baseball scene is buzzing with excitement as the Pakistan Federation Baseball (PFB) announces plans to host an international baseball league in the country. This initiative follows the successful organization of the Punjab Chief Minister's Baseball League.

 

Global Participation:

Players from five countries – India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, and a combined American-Palestinian contingent – have expressed interest in participating.

The league will feature 40 foreign players alongside Pakistani talent. Teams will be named after Pakistan's four major cities.

International Support:

Officials from the United States, Japan, and Canada will lend their expertise to the league's organization.

 

Boosting Baseball in Pakistan:

PFB Secretary-General Syed Fakhar Ali Shah, a prominent figure in Asian and world baseball, highlights the need for extensive media coverage to raise awareness for the sport, which is gaining popularity in Pakistan.

He emphasizes the Pakistani team's current ranking of 6th in Asia and their ambition to climb the global ladder.

 

Developing a World-Class Platform:

The league will feature international players, umpires, and national teams from WBSBC member countries, particularly from West and East Asia, enhancing its competitiveness.

PFB aims to provide a platform for talented South Asian, West Asian, and East Asian players who might be overlooked by major leagues like MLB.

 

Focus on Grassroots Development:

PFB Executive Director Moazzam Khan stresses the importance of nurturing young talent through strong Under-12 and Under-15 teams for future competitions.

He acknowledges the late Syed Khawar Shah's contributions to the progress of baseball in Pakistan.

 

Looking Ahead:

The upcoming international baseball league represents a significant milestone for Pakistan. It promises to raise the sport's profile, attract international participation, and create opportunities for aspiring players. With a focus on both elite competition and grassroots development, the PFB's efforts can propel Pakistan's baseball scene onto the world stage.