Favourites dominate Lahore Race Club

Favourites dominate Lahore Race Club

Asher Butt  

LAHORE: The Lahore Race Club witnessed a day of mixed fortunes for punters as favourites dominated three out of the four Kaghan Plate races on Sunday.

 

The day began with a victory for the odds-on favorite, Tatla Choice, who comfortably won the first race. Pride of Chandrai and Silent Melody secured the minor places.

 

In a surprising turn of events, the underdog Puerto Rico emerged victorious in the second race, upsetting the favored Falco who had to settle for second place. Gifts of Gold claimed the third spot.

 

The third race saw Handsome, the favorite, live up to expectations, finishing ahead of Lady Champion and Apple of My Eye.

 

The final race of the day was another predictable affair with Flying Fire, the overwhelming favorite, crossing the finish line first. Zaman Sahib, as expected, took second place, while Absolutely Not secured third position.

 

While the day belonged to the favorites in most races, the unexpected win of Puerto Rico in the second race kept punters on their toes.

LRC to hold four plate races on July 28

LRC to hold four plate races today

Asher Butt 

Horse racing enthusiasts are in for a treat as the Lahore Race Club is set to host a thrilling day of action with four Kaghan Plate races on Sunday.

 

The day's racing will kick off with the Kaghan Plate for Class-VII, Division VI and VII. Tatla Choice is the bookmakers' favorite to clinch victory, with Capital City and Pride of Chandrai considered strong contenders. A field of 12 horses will compete in this race. Other Contenders: Kuwait Currency, Mustang, Silent Melody, Land Cruiser, Abdullah King, Galileo Lady, Fakhar-e-Sahi, Pocket Wood

 

 

The second race of the day will feature Class-VII horses from Division V and VI. Falco is the odds-on favorite, closely followed by Abdullah Champion. Puerto Rico is expected to be a dark horse in this race. Other Contenders: Tango To Fire, Vartika, Gifts of Gold

 

The third Kaghan Plate race will be contested by Class-VII horses from Division III and IV. Handsome is the top pick, with Lalay De Jan and Lady Champion seen as potential challengers. Other Contenders: Kuwait Edition, Hukam, Apple of My Eye, Stardom

 

 

The final race of the day will be another Class-VII event for Division IV and V horses. Flying Fire is the favorite, while Zaman Sahib and Absolutely Not are expected to put up a strong fight.Other Contenders: Bella, Malik Badshah, Pocket Power

 

 

With a total of four Kaghan Plate races on the card, Sunday's meeting at the Lahore Race Club promises to be a thrilling day for horse racing fans.

LRC witnessed a day of surprises and expected victories

LRC witnessed a day of surprises and expected victories

 

Asher Butt

The Lahore Race Club saw a thrilling day of races on [DATE], with a mix of favorites securing victories and dark horses causing upsets.

 

The opening race of the day threw a curveball as Falco, an underdog, surged to the forefront, leaving the favored Silent Melody in third place. Tatla Choice managed to secure a surprise second-place finish.

 

The second race offered a similar story. While Flying Fire, a pre-race favorite, lived up to expectations and claimed the win, Generosity and Mumraiz Love emerged as surprise contenders, taking the second and third positions respectively.

 

Race three saw a return to form for the favorites. Dubawi's Angel, tipped for victory beforehand, dominated the race. Lalay De Jan, another horse predicted to be a strong contender, came in second place. However, the third-place finish went to Welcome Sardar, a dark horse that defied expectations.

 

The final race of the day proved somewhat predictable. Handsome, a horse expected to win, lived up to its billing and secured the top spot. Deedavar surprised the crowd with a strong showing, finishing a respectable second place. While Zaman Sahib was expected to be a frontrunner, it slipped to third place, much to the disappointment of its backers.

 

 

 

LRC prepares to hold Four Naran Plate Events today

 LRC prepares to hold Four Naran Plate Events today

Asher Butt

The Lahore Race Club is set to host its 7th Summer Meeting (2023-24 season) this Sunday (today), featuring four exciting Naran Plate races.

In the first race of Class-VII, Division-VII, Eight horses will compete, with Silent Melody favored to win. Jalthal is a potential contender for second place, while Tatla Choice could be a surprise winner. Other runners include Maze, Falcon, Sikandar Saphire, Pocket Wood, and Game Changer.

The second rtace of Class-VII, Division V&VI has Seven horses will vie for victory. Flying Fire is expected to take the lead, followed by Tully Princess in second. Puerto Rico might be a dark horse. The remaining contenders are Capital City, Mumraiz Love, Generosity, and Gifts of Gold.

In the third Class-VII, Division II&III race, the prestigious of all features a select group of five. Dubawi's Angel is tipped to win, with Lalay De Jan a potential runner-up. Baby Max could be an outsider to watch. Welcome Sardar and Black Bird round out the field.

The final race is of Class-VII, Division-III IV&V. Seven horses will compete for the podium finish. Handsome is the predicted winner, with Zaman Sahib likely to secure second place. Deedavar might be a surprise contender. The remaining horses are Hukam, Blazing Fire, Malik Badshah, and Pocket Power.

PCB plans steps to enhance player development and performance

PCB plans steps to enhance player development and performance

Asher Butt 

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) under the leadership of Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has undertaken significant measures to revitalize the National Cricket Academy (NCA) and provide enhanced training and facilities to players, aiming to elevate their performance and address skill deficiencies.

In line with the strategic vision to bolster player development, the Chairman PCB has decided to reactivate the National Cricket Academy. This reactivation is poised to introduce a comprehensive training program designed to improve players' skills in bowling, batting, wicket-keeping, and fielding, addressing vital areas of the game that require attention and refinement.

Director of High Performance Center, Nadeem Khan, is set to unveil a program next week to activate the National Cricket Academy. This initiative will involve the formulation of training programs for both the NCA and High Performance Centers, developed in consultation with experienced coaches, with the objective of nurturing and honing the skills of emerging and established players, said an official.

“To further fortify the NCA's role in player development, the PCB has resolved to hire junior coaches to provide specialized training and mentorship. This move is reminiscent of past practices and is expected to contribute to the comprehensive development of a new generation of cricketers by enhancing their technical and strategic acumen in all facets of the game.”

He further stated that the national cricket team's current challenges, including the shortage of quality spinners, all-rounders, and power hitters, have been acknowledged by the PCB. “In response, the NCA will focus on refining these skills, equipping players with the necessary expertise to excel in these crucial roles. Additionally, the NCA will address fielding deficiencies, aiming to elevate the team's overall performance in this aspect of the game.”

“The PCB's initiatives to reactivate the NCA, collaborate with the High Performance Center, recruit junior coaches, and address skill deficiencies underscore its commitment to fostering a robust and skilled pool of players, ensuring the continuous elevation of Pakistan's national cricketing standards.”

 

PCB to reassess central contracts and salaries of players

PCB to reassess central contracts and salaries of players

Asher Butt 

In the backdrop of the Pakistan team's disappointing performance and subsequent elimination from the T20 World Cup 2024, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has initiated a reassessment process of the central contracts of its players, aiming to address underperformance and accountability.

The PCB, led by Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, has initiated a comprehensive review of player retention and salaries following the team's unsatisfactory showing in the T20 World Cup. “Deliberations among senior PCB officials have centered on potential demotions and potential contract terminations for players who underperformed during the tournament,” revealed sources.

A source further stated that [layers who have underperformed are anticipated to face demotions in their central contracts, with the possibility of several players losing their contracts altogether. This decision follows Pakistan's elimination from the T20 World Cup after failing to progress to the Super Eight stage, with losses to the United States and India contributing to their early exit.

The PCB is considering financial adjustments for players across different contract categories to ensure a fair and sustainable financial model that rewards performance and contribution to the national team. The proposed changes include reducing the monthly salaries of Category A players from Rs 6.1 million to Rs 4.5 million, with potential adjustments in monthly allowances for other contract categories.

The reported salary reduction for major players has stirred discontent among some senior cricketers, with concerns raised about potential reluctance to sign the central contract for the 2024-25 season. Notably, the proposed reduction in monthly earnings for Category A players from Rs 60 lakh to Rs 40 lakh has sparked dissatisfaction among the players.

In addition to the contract reassessment, the PCB has also declined to issue No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for players participating in all three formats, aiming to manage injuries and workload effectively.

Babar King rules Salah-Ud-Din Ayubi Cup at LRC

Babar King rules Salah-Ud-Din Ayubi Cup at LRC

Asher Butt

In a stunning upset, Babar King defied the odds to clinch the coveted Salah-Ud-Din Ayubi Cup at the Lahore Race Club yesterday evening.

During the day, only other than favourite Lalay De Jan, there was none of the preferred could reach the podium on its desired or predicted positions. Overall, the Lahore Race Club witnessed an exciting day of racing with several unexpected outcomes that kept spectators on the edge of their seats.

The day's racing was full of surprises. The opening race ended in a thrilling dead heat between two underdogs, Silent Melody and Gifts Of Gold, while Abdullah Love claimed third place.

In the second race, Dil Lagi defied expectations to secure first place, leaving favorites Puerto Rico and Flying Fire trailing behind.

The featured Salah-Ud-Din Ayubi Cup saw Babar King's triumphant performance, with Lady Champion taking second place as predicted and Deedavar claiming a surprising third.

The final race of the day concluded with Lalay De Jan fulfilling its favorite status, while Handsome and Bella secured unexpected second and third place finishes respectively.

Salah-Ud-Din Ayubi Cup main event of LRC postponed from Saturday to Sunday

Salah-Ud-Din Ayubi Cup main event of LRC postponed from Saturday to Sunday

Asher Butt

LAHORE: Bio Care is going to be the focus of attention in the day’s featured Salah-Ud-Din Ayubi Cup planned for the 6th day summer meeting 2023-24 of the Lahore Race Club. 

The races which was suppose to be held on Saturday (today) were postponed for Sunday.

The entire activity of day was brought forward for a day in sanctity of the holy month id Moharram and there will be four races lined up with Salah-Ud-Din Ayubi Cup as the main event of the day while three Sawat plate races are the other competitions. Besides all the four races are of 900 metres, saddling off in the evening provided the track is not soggy enough for a free run.

The opening Sawat Plate of the lineup of eight Class-VII and Division-VI&VII, has Jalthal as the favourite. With place expectations carried by Abdullah Love, a surprise may come from Super Power while the field also has Gifts of Gold, Tatla Choice, Abdullah King, Lucky Time, and Silent Melody.

In the second Class-VII and Division-V&VI picked race, Flying Fire is the front runner from among seven contestants. The favourite is believed followed by Dil Lagi at place with Puerto Rico being on fluke. The other runners are Jalpana Prince, Pride of Chandrai, Maze, and Abdullah Champion.

The main race of the day, the Salah-Ud-Din Ayubi Cup, which is a Class-VII.Division-II&III category, is the third race. For the favourite Bio Care, the closest challenger is Lady Champion but a surprise may also come from Babar King. However, the likes of Black Bird, Shareeka, and Deedavar cannot be ruled out of good performances.

Finally, the Class-VII and Division-IV&V race of seven participants culminates the day’s activity. But not before Lalay De Jan showing of its skills at the potential leader of the pack. With Tully Princess expected to draw a challenge for a place, expect an unexpected surprise from Handsome. Whereas, the field is completed by Fairy World, Life Is Good, Bala, and Generosity.  

Dubawi's Angel clinches the July Cup in major upset

 Dubawi's Angel clinches the July Cup in major upset

Asher Butt

LAHORE: Dubawi's Angel pulled off one of the biggest upsets of the day by winning the featured July Cup in a thrilling showdown on Sunday evening at the Lahore Race Club. 

The unexpected victory was just one highlight in a day full of surprises, as several races saw unknown and wildcard entrants making their mark.

The opening race set the tone for the day with Jalthal emerging as the unexpected winner. Abdullah Love and Silent Melody also exceeded expectations, finishing second and third respectively.

Winner: Jalthal (upset)

Second Place: Abdullah Love (surprise)

Third Place: Silent Melody (surprise)

In the second race, Lalay Di Jaan won on a fluke, while the favourite, Zaman Sahib, secured the second position. Bella, another surprise contender, finished third.

Winner: Lalay Di Jaan (fluke)

Second Place: Zaman Sahib (favourite)

Third Place: Bella (surprise)

The July Cup, the third race of the day, witnessed a major upset with Dubawi's Angel claiming victory. Lady Champion, running on a fluke, finished second, while the favourite, Deedavar, managed to secure the third position.

Winner: Dubawi's Angel (major upset)

Second Place: Lady Champion (fluke)

Third Place: Deedavar (favourite)

The final race of the day continued the trend of unexpected results, with Puerto Rico winning in an upset. Dil Lagi surprised many by finishing second, and Gennie, running on a fluke, came in third.

Winner: Puerto Rico (upset)

Second Place: Dil Lagi (surprise)

Third Place: Gennie (fluke)

The day at the Lahore Race Club was marked by unexpected victories and surprising performances, particularly in the featured July Cup. Dubawi's Angel's win was the standout, highlighting a day where favourites were often upstaged by less-fancied contenders. The series of upsets and surprises made for an exciting and unpredictable day of racing.

Fitness tests commence across Pakistan under Chairman's directive

Fitness tests commence across Pakistan under Chairman's directive

Asher Butt 

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has, in a significant move to enhance the fitness standards of cricketers, initiated a nationwide fitness test campaign under the directive of PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi. This ambitious initiative, which began in Lahore, is now being implemented at the district level.

The fitness tests, which are mandatory for all cricketers including Test and international players, consist of several rigorous assessments, including the Yo-Yo test. These tests are a prerequisite for players aspiring to participate in the upcoming inter-district tournament.

Chairman Naqvi has emphasized the importance of fitness at all levels of cricket, announcing the introduction of additional tests at the regional level to further broaden the scope of this initiative. Players must pass these stringent fitness trials to be eligible to join the fitness camps.

In the inter-district tournament, 22 players have been selected based on their performance in these fitness tests. These players will undergo focused training on fielding, fitness, and technique in the upcoming camps.

Over the next 45 days, 101 training camps will be set up nationwide, marking the first time in Pakistan's history that fitness camps are being organized at the district level. This move demonstrates the PCB's commitment to making fitness a top priority.

Chairman Naqvi has assured that practical measures are in place to ensure complete transparency and merit in both the fitness trials and the subsequent camps. He emphasized the ongoing nature of these trials, stating, "Fitness is the top priority, and there will be fitness trials at every level. Practical measures are being taken to ensure complete transparency and merit in the fitness trials and camps. The series of fitness trials will continue regularly."

Director of Domestic Cricket Khurram Niazi has also approved a comprehensive plan to improve fitness across all levels. Players who fail the fitness tests will face consequences, including being dropped from both national and regional teams. This underscores the PCB's dedication to maintaining high fitness standards as a crucial component of player performance and team success.

The PCB's nationwide fitness test campaign, initiated by Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, represents a landmark effort to elevate the fitness standards of Pakistani cricketers. With rigorous testing and transparent processes, the PCB aims to ensure that only the fittest players represent the country, thereby enhancing the overall quality and competitiveness of Pakistan cricket.

Gillespie sets high standards for Pakistan Test team

 Gillespie sets high standards for Pakistan Test team

Asher Butt 

Pakistan’s new head coach, Jason Gillespie, laid out his vision for the Pakistan Test team, emphasizing the importance of fitness, consistency, and developing a distinct identity in the world of cricket.

Gillespie addressed the media on Sunday shortly after arriving in the country. In his first press conference, Gillespie, the former Australian fast bowler, made it clear that there would be no compromise on fitness. “National teams are not where you still question a player’s value. If there are any perceptions about a player’s place, he has to change it with his performances and attitude,” he stressed. 

He further emphasized that fitness is non-negotiable in modern cricket, stating, “My mantra is that we should only have fit, robust, and strong players in the Test side because in modern-day cricket of any format, fitness is a must.”

While Gillespie expressed his desire for the team to play positive cricket, he rejected the ‘Bazball’ approach, advocating instead for a more strategic and situation-based style of play. “To me, Test cricket is always about playing it session to session and seizing the opportunity when it comes your way. The match is dictated by the opposition and conditions,” he explained. Gillespie highlighted Pakistan’s talent but pointed out inconsistency in performances as a significant issue. “The Pakistan cricket team is very talented, but the lack of consistency in performances is the main problem. We will see how we can bring continuity and consistency in performances,” he said.

Gillespie shared his excitement about his new role and his collaboration with Gary Kirsten, Pakistan’s white-ball coach. “Both me and Gary are very excited about these assignments. I have exchanged views with him, and obviously, we can help each other reach our goals in red and white ball cricket,” he said. Gillespie emphasized his commitment to developing a strong and cohesive team. “I want Pakistan to play in authentic Pakistan style and create an identity for itself. What I know is that Pakistan has the talent to do well. It is just about honing these players to work together to get consistently good results,” he remarked.

Gillespie will travel to Australia with the Shaheens for the four-day games against Bangladesh, allowing him to assess the talent up close. He also mentioned his conversations with Shan Masood, Pakistan’s red-ball captain, and expressed optimism about playing positive cricket. Gillespie plans to discuss the style of cricket with the players and select the team based on the opposition and conditions. “If a player is good for the team, he will definitely be selected. I’m in contact with Gary Kirsten for players’ workload management,” he noted.

Identifying fielding as a weak point for Pakistan, Gillespie made it his priority to improve it. “For me, the goal is to see how we play against quality sides,” he maintained. Gillespie also addressed Pakistan’s disappointing performance in the World Cup and the calls for Babar Azam’s removal from captaincy, stating that the PCB was best placed to make decisions regarding leadership.

Jason Gillespie’s arrival marks a new chapter for Pakistan’s Test team, with a strong emphasis on fitness, consistency, and developing a unique playing style. His strategic approach and commitment to high standards are expected to bring significant improvements to the team’s performance on the international stage.

LRC has a card of four races for Sunday

 LRC has a card of four races for Sunday

Asher Butt

LAHORE: The Lahore Race Club's 5^th Summer meeting is set to culminate with a thrilling card of four races on Sunday (today). The highlight of the day will be the prestigious July Cup, promising a spectacular showdown among top contenders.

The July Cup, the feature race of the day, is expected to draw significant attention with Deedavar, Kuwait Edition, and Lady Champion leading the charge. This race, along with the other three, promises a day filled with excitement and competitive spirit.

With a mix of seasoned horses and emerging stars, the races offer a dynamic blend of thrill and unpredictability. Bettors and racing enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting to see if the favorites will hold their ground or if the flukes will cause surprising upsets.

Race Lineup and Favorites

Opening Race: Gawadar Plate (Class-VII, Division-VII), Favorite: Salaar, Place: Kuwait Currency, Fluke: Jalthal, Remaining Field: Abdullah King, Danial Prince, Vitoria, Galileo Lady, Abdullah Love, Silent Melody, Fakhar-e-Sahi, Puma Legend, Roshnee.

Second Race: (Class-VII, Division-IV&V), Favorite: Absolutely Not, Place: Zaman Sahib, Fluke: Lalay De Jan, Remaining Field: Bella, Emerging Star, Generosity, Abdullah Champion.

Third Race: July Cup (Class-VII, Division-III), Favorite: Deedavar, Place: Kuwait Edition, Fluke: Lady Champion, Remaining Field: Dubawi's Angel, Fairy World, Shining Moon.

Final Race: (Class-VII, Division-V&VI), Favorite: Pride of Chandrai, Place: Tango To Fire, Fluke: Gennie, Remaining Field: Gifts of Gold, Pureto Rico, Vartika, Tatla Choice, Dil Lagi.

PCB gets BoG approval for increased investment in domestic and women's cricket

 PCB gets BoG approval for increased investment in domestic and women's cricket

PCB allocates Rs 12-8 billion for stadium upgradation

Asher Butt 

The PCB Board of Governors has approved significant increase for investment in domestic and women's cricket and also given a go ahead for the upgradation of stadium with an allocation of 12 billion 80 crore rupees and a number of grounds across the country ahead of the next year’s Champions Trophy.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) held its 72nd Board of Governors meeting on Saturday, with Chairman PCB Mohsin Naqvi presiding. The meeting, held at the National Cricket Academy, focused on key decisions regarding finances, infrastructure development, and player contracts.

The Board approved the PCB's budget estimates for the upcoming fiscal year 2024-25. The BoG also opted to increase investment in Domestic Cricket. A significant boost was allocated for domestic cricket, with funds of PKR 4.5 billion earmarked for its promotion. This includes the PCB directly maintaining 12 grounds and providing funding for staffing and maintenance of 100 grounds across Pakistan.

The meeting also saw approval for an increase in domestic cricket player contracts, recognizing their contributions, informed Rafi Ullah, a PCB official.

He further confided that in a landmark decision, an increase from PKR 70 lakh to PKR 240 lakh for the women's cricket budget was seen, signifying a commitment to women's cricket development. Additionally, central contracts for women cricketers were also approved for an increase.

The BOG also approved stadium upgradation projects. Approval was granted for the upgradation project of Gaddafi Stadium from the PCB's Development Budget. The Board allocated PKR 12.8 billion for the upgradation of National Bank Stadium Karachi and Rawalpindi Stadium. Chairman Naqvi assured that these renovations would be completed before the ICC Champions Trophy scheduled for Pakistan next year.

Chairman Naqvi emphasized that the stadium upgradation projects would enhance facilities for cricket fans, ensuring a world-class experience during the Champions Trophy. The PCB vowed to make arrangements for the Champions Trophy that meet the highest international standards, he added and further stated that Chairman Naqvi highlighted ongoing efforts to identify and develop new venues for future tournaments and matches.

Chairman Naqvi also outlined various measures being taken to strengthen the domestic cricket structure. The meeting also saw discussions on suggestions for further improvement.

Board members who were present in the meeting included Chief Secretary Punjab Zahid Akhtar Zaman, Sajjad Ali Khokhar, Zafarullah Jadgal, Tanveer Ahmed, Tariq Sarwar, Dr. Anwar Ahmad Khan, Muhammad Ismail Qureshi, Meraj Mehmood, Isama Azhar, Director Domestic Cricket Abdullah Khurram Niazi.

The meeting concluded with a briefing by Secretary Board and Chief Operating Officer PCB Salman Naseer and Chief Financial Officer Javed Murtaza on the key features of the budget and other pertinent issues.

“This 72nd Board of Governors meeting signifies the PCB's commitment to financial transparency, infrastructure development, and the growth of both domestic and women's cricket in Pakistan,” said the PCB official.

Sana Mir awarded lifetime MCC membership

Sana Mir awarded lifetime MCC membership

Asher Butt 

Former Pakistan women's cricket captain Sana Mir, who called it a day in 2020 from international cricket after a remarkable 15-year career, has been awarded with the prestigious honor of being a lifetime membership of the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) at Lord's.

Mir, who captained the Pakistan team in both T20I and ODI formats, left behind a legacy of excellence. She led her team to victory in the 2010 and 2014 Asian Games, showcasing her leadership prowess on the international stage.

Upon receiving the lifetime MCC membership, Mir expressed her deep gratitude.  "I am truly honored and humbled," she stated, acknowledging the challenges faced by women in sports.  She highlighted this recognition as a testament to the collective effort of all women who paved the way for her success.  Mir further praised the MCC for "celebrating my journey" and being a community that values women's cricket.

“I would like to thank everyone involved in this induction process who recognized my dedication and passion for cricket and my country.

“As women in sports, we face many challenges, but moments like these make every sweat drop, every injury, and every sacrifice worth it. This nomination is a testament to the hard work and perseverance of not just me, but all the women who have paved the way for me in this sport.

“I would like to thank MCC again for celebrating my journey. I am humbled to be part of a community that values and supports women in cricket and sets the bar high for all related to this beautiful sport,” she added.

Mir's cricketing career is a testament to her dedication and skill. She debuted ODI in 2005, played 120 matches (most for a Pakistan women cricketer), tallied 1,630 runs (3rd highest for Pakistan) and claimed 151 wickets (shares 4th position in all-time list). She reached a career-best bowling figure of 5/32 and scored a career-best of 52 runs

Her T20Is, debut was in 2009 as she played 106 matches and scored 802 runs and took 89 wickets. Her a career-best T20I score was 48*.

As a captain, she led Pakistan in 72 ODIs (winning 26) and 65 T20Is (winning 26). Led the team at two World Cups (2013 & 2017) and five WT20 World Cups (2009-2016). She was also named captain of Wisden's Women's Team of the Decade and was included in the ICC Women's Committee as a player representative alongside Mithali Raj.

Mir etched her name in cricketing history by becoming one of only five women to achieve the ODI double of 1000 runs and 100 wickets. She is the first Asian woman to play 100 T20I matches.

While retiring from international cricket, Mir remains actively involved in promoting the sport.  Her dedication and achievements serve as an inspiration for aspiring women cricketers around the world.

SWAP, SJAL celebrate World Sports Journalists Day in Lahore

SWAP, SJAL celebrate World Sports Journalists Day in Lahore

Asher Butt

The Sports Writers Association of Punjab and Sports Journalists Association of Lahore alongside other associations of Pakistan joined the global celebration of World Sports Journalists Day with a special event held here at the National Hockey Stadium in Lahore on Tuesday.

The event was also co-organized by the SWAP, SJAL and Pakistan Hockey Federation officials, bringing together prominent figures from the sports media and sports world.

Renowned personalities in attendance, included Secretary PHF (Pakistan Hockey Federation) Olympian Rana Mujahid Ali, Olympian Asif Bajwa, Hockey legend Shehbaz Sr., Pakistan Sports Writers Federation Chairman Shahid Shaikh, Chairman SAJL Zahid Maqsood, Mohammad Yaqub, Farrukh Butt, Acting President SAJL Shahzad Malik, Secretary SJAL Yousuf Anjum, Ejaz Sheikh, Sohail Imran, Olympian Anjum Saeed, Masoodur Rehman, Hafiz Shahbaz Ali, (participated virtually: Asher Butt), Abdul Rauf Rufi, Rana Azhar Noor, Waseem Ahmed, Azhar Masood, Shakeel Khattak, and Azhar Kazmi.

All the senior participants highlighted the importance of sports journalism. The event served as a platform to acknowledge the crucial role sports journalists play in the development of sports within the country. Speakers, including Zahid Maqsood and Asif Bajwa, emphasized this point, stating that "no federation and association can move forward without sports journalists."

Asif Bajwa further highlighted the evolving media landscape, acknowledging the past dominance of print media while emphasizing the current importance of presenting "the positive face of Pakistan to the world."

Secretary PHF, Rana Mujahid Ali, reiterated the Federation's commitment to supporting the welfare of sports journalists, recognizing their valuable contributions.

Olympian Shahbaz Sr. stressed the inseparable connection between sports journalists and sporting progress: "Sports cannot progress without journalists." Additionally, the importance of media in promoting Pakistan's national sport, hockey, was emphasized.

The ceremony concluded with the cutting of a cake commemorating the 100th anniversary of the International Sports Press Association (AIPS) - the organization behind World Sports Journalists Day.