Set In Stone clinches Zaheer-Ud-Din Babar Cup amidst shocking upsets at Lahore Race Club

 Set In Stone clinches Zaheer-Ud-Din Babar Cup amidst shocking upsets at Lahore Race Club

Asher Butt

The Lahore Race Club witnessed an exhilarating day of racing on Sunday, as Set In Stone emerged victorious in the highly anticipated Zaheer-Ud-Din Babar Cup, leaving fellow competitors in its wake. The underdogs showcased their prowess throughout the event, resulting in a series of unexpected outcomes that kept spectators on the edge of their seats.

Race Highlights:

1st Race: In a stunning upset, Super Power galloped ahead to claim victory, followed by a surprising second-place finish from Sikander Sapphire. The podium was completed by the astonishing Gifts Of Gold, who secured a remarkable third.

2nd Race: The trend of surprises continued as Public City pulled off an unexpected win. Mumraiz Prince managed to snag second place, while the favored Zaman Sahib could only muster a third-place finish.

3rd Race: Another upset unfolded with Yesteryear taking the top spot. The favorite, Flying Fire, finished in second, while Thunder Boy, expected to perform well, rounded out the top three in third.

4th Race - Zaheer-Ud-Din Babar Cup: The spotlight shone brightly on Set In Stone, who set a brisk pace to secure the championship. Status and Hero followed closely, finishing in second and third, respectively.

5th Race: The day concluded with Suspicious One being the only favorite to uphold expectations and clinch victory. Desert Crown secured a place in second, while the surprising Purto Rico took third.

Overall, the day was marked by unexpected turns and thrilling finishes, underscoring the unpredictability of horse racing. Fans left the Lahore Race Club buzzing with excitement, eager for the next round of races.

Pakistan prepare hard as Nepal host Asia Rugby’s biggest event

 Pakistan prepare hard as Nepal host Asia Rugby’s biggest event

Asher Butt 

Pakistan team is preparing hard and is all set to take part in one of Asia’s most competitive rugby tournaments, the Asia Rugby Emirates Sevens Trophy, which will kick off on 4th October 2024 in Kathmandu. The tournament will feature 14 men’s teams and 8 women’s teams, representing all five sub-regions of Asia. This two-day event promises intense competition as teams vie for promotion to the prestigious Asia Rugby Emirates Sevens Series 2025.

 

Originally planned as two separate events, the Asia Rugby Sevens Emirates Challenge and Asia Rugby Emirates Sevens Trophy, the decision to merge the tournaments was made due to a few teams withdrawing and to foster a more competitive environment. This change ensures that every participating team has an equal shot at securing promotion to the Emirates Sevens Series. The men’s competition, originally set for 12 teams, now includes 14.

 

The 17 participating nations collectively represent 2.5 billion people and over 1.2 billion social media users, demonstrating the widespread reach and importance of this tournament. The men’s teams competing include Afghanistan, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Chinese Taipei, India, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, and Uzbekistan. The women’s teams are Guam, India, Indonesia, Iran, Nepal, Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Uzbekistan.

 

This year’s tournament is set to be particularly exciting, with teams like Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Chinese Taipei (men) and Philippines and Sri Lanka (women), all of whom have been regulars on the main Asia Rugby Sevens Series circuit. Emerging teams such as Afghanistan, Bahrain, and Kazakhstan (men), Iran, and India (women) have the potential to shake things up and add an extra layer of unpredictability to the competition.

 

Men’s Rugby Sevens will feature in next year’s South Asian Federation (SAF) Games, scheduled to take place in Pakistan, marking a significant milestone for the sport in the region. This makes the 2024 Asia Rugby Emirates Sevens Trophy an even more crucial event, as all South Asian teams are set to participate, adding to the historical significance of the tournament. It will be the first time Rugby Sevens will be contested at the SAF Games, underscoring the growing importance of rugby in South Asia.

 

The Asia Rugby Emirates Sevens Trophy will be held at the Dasarath Rangasala Stadium in the picturesque Kathmandu Valley. Both the men’s and women’s champions will secure their spots in the 2025 Asia Rugby Emirates Sevens Series, creating a clear pathway for emerging teams to join the ranks of Asia’s rugby elite.

 

In a statement, Asia Rugby President, Qais Al Dhalai, expressed his enthusiasm: “We are excited to witness history as the Asia Rugby Emirates Sevens Trophy takes place in Kathmandu, Nepal. This is a monumental event for the Nepal Rugby Association, as they host their first-ever senior sevens tournament. Nepal has demonstrated its capability through the successful organization of age-grade tournaments—the U18 Sevens in 2022 and the U20 Sevens in 2023. We are thrilled to return to Nepal and support the continued growth of rugby in the country and the region.”

 

Beyond its significance for Asia Rugby, this tournament also serves as a pathway to the World Rugby HSBC Sevens Series. The top-performing teams in 2025 will qualify for the World Rugby Challenger Series, offering a global stage for Asia’s best.

 

Fans can catch all the action live on Asia Rugby’s YouTube and Facebook channels, with the promise of unforgettable moments in this landmark event for Asian rugby.

Rising star Ali Raza: From village cricket to international stardom

 Rising star Ali Raza: From village cricket to international stardom

Asher Butt

Ali Raza, the breakout star of the Champions One-Day Cup, shares his inspiring journey from village cricket to international acclaim.

The PCB Podcast spotlights Ali Raza, the 16-year-old pace bowler from Sheikhupura, whose rise to prominence has captured the attention of cricket fans and experts alike. Raza, who made headlines during the Champions One-Day Cup in Faisalabad, shared his inspiring journey from village cricket to the national stage. “It’s been an amazing experience,” Raza reflected in the 17-minute segment, recounting his first visit to Pakistan’s National Cricket Academy and his recent stint at the ECB's High-Performance Centre in Loughborough.

Ali Raza’s impressive debut in the Champions Cup, where he dismissed prominent players like Mohammad Haris and Shan Masood, has cemented his reputation as one of Pakistan’s brightest future stars. Despite missing the first two matches due to dengue fever, Raza returned to lead his team, Lake City Panthers, to victory in consecutive games, securing crucial wickets and contributing significantly to their success.

Raza’s performance in the ICC Men’s U19 Cricket World Cup in South Africa earlier this year further solidified his potential, with nine wickets in three matches, including a four-wicket haul against Australia. Though he is yet to make his first-class debut, the teenage sensation is being closely watched by coaches and selectors, with many touting him as a future star for Pakistan.

Gillespie stresses focus and discipline in series against England

 Gillespie stresses focus and discipline in series against England

Asher Butt 

Pakistan’s red ball head coach Jason Gillespie has stressed upon the need of focus and discipline as the key ingredient for the Pakistan team in their upcoming Three-match Test rubber against England.

Pakistan will take on England in the opening match of the three-Test match series on October 7 at Multan Stadium while the second and third match will start on October 15 at the same venue and on October 24 at Karachi’s National Stadium.

In the latest episode of the Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) Podcast, the head coach featured in exclusive interviews ahead of Pakistan’s upcoming Test series against England. The 55th edition of the PCB Podcast, covered an in-depth preview of Pakistan’s red-ball cricket prospects, with Gillespie offering insights into the team's preparations, selection strategy, and thoughts on the challenge ahead.

With the series against England less than two weeks away, Jason Gillespie emphasized the importance of discipline and consistency. “Test cricket is exciting, and to play against a team like England, especially in Pakistan, is a great opportunity. We believe we match up well, but we also recognize that they are a very good side,” Gillespie said during the 22-minute interview.

Gillespie, who took over as head coach in April, has only managed Pakistan in one Test series so far but is looking ahead optimistically. He highlighted Pakistan’s need for ruthless execution of their game plans, drawing on lessons from their recent 2-0 defeat to Bangladesh. “We showed glimpses of quality in Bangladesh, but we didn’t sustain it long enough. We allowed our opponents back into the game, and that’s where we let ourselves down,” he remarked. According to Gillespie, the key to success in the upcoming series lies in Pakistan’s ability to maintain pressure once they take the lead.

Reflecting on England’s performance during their 2022 series against Pakistan, where batters like Harry Brook and Ben Duckett scored prolifically, Gillespie acknowledged that the absence of fast bowlers such as James Anderson, Mark Wood, and Ollie Robinson could work in Pakistan’s favor. However, he emphasized the need to remain focused on the task at hand. “We respect the absence of these players, but we can only prepare to face those who are in the squad,” he noted, adding that preparation and focus would be key to Pakistan’s success in the series.

When asked about the selection choices for the series, Gillespie defended his decision to back the current squad rather than making drastic changes. He pointed to Pakistan’s domestic competitions as fertile ground for player development, suggesting that continuity and faith in the existing lineup would be crucial to long-term success. “We’ve debated honestly and openly as a selection group, and ultimately, we decided to support the players in and around the squad,” he explained.

With Pakistan set to host back-to-back Tests in Multan starting October 7, logistical challenges have led to the scheduling of consecutive matches at the same venue. Gillespie explained that ongoing renovations at other major stadiums in preparation for the ICC Champions Trophy next year have limited the available options. “It’s a logistical decision, and we’re making the best of the situation,” he said, emphasizing that the team’s focus remains on preparation and delivering consistent performances.

Spinners Abrar Ahmed and Noman Ali will play pivotal roles in the Multan Tests, with Gillespie noting that the team has prepared for all possible conditions. “We want to ensure all skill sets are covered. Noman brings vast experience, and we’re confident that we have the right combination for the conditions,” he added.

Looking ahead, Gillespie emphasized the importance of laying a solid foundation for Pakistan cricket, not only for the immediate series but also for the future. “Our focus is on consistency, preparation, and process. We want to ensure that we’re building toward long-term success, not just in this series but in the years to come.”

As the Test series against England approaches, the mood within the Pakistan camp is one of anticipation and excitement. Gillespie expressed his confidence in the team, stating that they are eager to prove themselves on the international stage and make their supporters proud. “The players are excited and ready. They love playing for Pakistan and want to inspire their fans,” he said, adding that the backing of former Test cricketers has provided an extra boost to the current squad.

For Gillespie, a veteran of numerous Ashes battles with England, the series holds special significance. “As an Australian in the Pakistan camp, I enjoy playing against England. I’m looking forward to the challenge, and I know the players are too. It’s going to be a fascinating series.”

With the first Test just days away, Pakistan’s preparations are in full swing, and the stage is set for what promises to be a thrilling contest against one of the top teams in world cricket.

Pakistani women gear up for T20 World Cup with warm-up against Scotland

 Pakistani women gear up for T20 World Cup with warm-up against Scotland today

Asher Butt 

The Pakistani Women's Cricket Team is making final preparations for the ICC Women's T20 World Cup, with their first warm-up match scheduled against Scotland tomorrow (Sunday).

The team's recent training sessions and player views shared by the PCB reveal a mix of excitement, confidence, and determination as they approach the global tournament.

Last night, the team engaged in a comprehensive practice session at the ICC Academy Oval 2 in Dubai. Under the watchful eyes of their coaching staff, the players honed their skills across all aspects of the game. Head Coach Mohammad Wasim oversaw the session, supported by specialist coaches team including Jaind Khan (Fast Bowling Coach), Abdul Rahman (Spin Bowling Coach), and Hanif Malik (Fielding Coach).

The practice focused on refining bowling techniques, improving fielding skills, and enhancing batting strategies, ensuring a well-rounded preparation for the upcoming matches.

Several key players shared their thoughts on the team's preparation and their expectations for the World Cup.

Muneeba Ali highlighted the team's thorough preparation, including a training camp in Multan. She praised the coaches' efforts in developing their batting skills, particularly in executing various shots. Muneeba also noted the positive outcomes from their recent series against South Africa, which has boosted the team's morale. However, she acknowledged the tough competition in their pool, emphasizing the need for consistent, high-quality cricket to achieve favorable results.

For Aroob Shah, the World Cup represents an exciting opportunity on a global stage. She expressed her eagerness to perform well and bring honor to Pakistan. Aroob detailed the team's comprehensive preparation, including dedicated fitness and skills camps. She also highlighted their strong performance and attacking style of play in the recent series against South Africa.

As a first-time World Cup participant, Gull Feroza shared her excitement about the tournament. She spoke about the confidence boost she received from playing a series in Multan, her home ground. Gull praised the quality of their training, noting that the coaches have worked diligently on all aspects of the game – batting, fielding, and bowling. She also conveyed the team's collective enthusiasm and determination to perform well in the World Cup.

A team official emphasized that the player are in high spirits, confident in their preparation for the World Cup. ”As the team prepares for their warm-up match against Scotland, there's a palpable sense of anticipation and readiness. While acknowledging the tough competition they'll face, the Pakistani Women's Cricket Team appears united in their goal to deliver strong performances and make their mark on this year's ICC Women's T20 World Cup.

“The coming days will be crucial as they fine-tune their strategies and acclimatize to the conditions. With a blend of experienced players and fresh talent, coupled with thorough preparation, the Pakistani team is poised to face the challenges of the World Cup with confidence and determination,” he added.

PCB chairman discusses development, lines up committees for Champions Trophy

 PCB chairman discusses development, lines up committees for Champions Trophy

Asher Butt

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi in a significant move towards enhancing Pakistan’s cricket landscape, presided over a high-level meeting discussing game development and assigned committees for the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025.

The gathering focused on three pivotal areas: preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, ongoing stadium upgradation projects, and the success of domestic tournaments.

A PCB official revealed that they are leaving no stone unturned in its preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, set to be hosted by Pakistan. Chairman Naqvi emphasized the importance of this global event, stating, “The Champions Trophy will bring the world’s top teams to our soil. Our arrangements must be nothing short of exemplary.”

He stressed upon the formation of specialized committees to oversee various aspects of tournament preparation, clear delineation of responsibilities for each committee and immediate commencement of preparatory work.

“We must start our work immediately. Each committee will have defined responsibilities to ensure a streamlined approach to our preparations,” Naqvi added.

Recognizing the importance of world-class infrastructure, the meeting also addressed the ongoing stadium upgradation projects across the country. Chairman Naqvi issued directives to expedite these efforts and accelerate the pace of upgradation work, ensure completion within stipulated timeframes and focus on enhancing spectator experience.

“Our goal is to provide cricket fans with an unparalleled viewing experience. The upgraded stadiums will not only improve the fan experience but also meet international standards,” Naqvi explained.

What the PCB declared the success of the ongoing Bahria Town Champions Cup in Faisalabad was also highlighted during the meeting. Naqvi expressed his appreciation for the enthusiasm shown by local fans: “The passion displayed by Faisalabad’s citizens during the Champions Cup matches is truly commendable. It reinforces our commitment to promoting cricket at the grassroots level.”

In a promising development for cricket in Faisalabad, Naqvi revealed, “We are actively considering hosting Pakistan Super League (PSL) matches in Faisalabad in the future.”

The meeting, attended by key PCB officials including Chief Operating Officer Salman Naseer and Chief Financial Officer Javed Murtaza, along with all PCB Directors, set a positive tone for the future of Pakistani cricket, said Rafi Ullah.

“Chairman Naqvi’s remarks reflected the PCB’s commitment to elevating Pakistan’s cricketing status. From grassroots to international events, our focus is on comprehensive development. The enthusiasm we’re seeing in domestic tournaments, coupled with our preparations for global events like the Champions Trophy, paints a bright future for Pakistani cricket.”

“As Pakistan prepare for a busy cricketing calendar, including the much-anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025, the PCB’s proactive approach signals exciting times ahead for cricket enthusiasts across the nation,” added he.

Remembering Sultan F. Husain: pioneer in Pakistani Sports Journalism

 Remembering Sultan F. Husain:

A pioneer in Pakistani Sports Journalism on His 110th Birth Anniversary

Asher Butt 

September 28 marks the 110th birth anniversary of Sultan F. Husain, a legendary figure in Pakistani sports journalism and a former national tennis player. Husain, who passed away years ago, left an indelible mark on the landscape of sports reporting in Pakistan.

Sultan F. Husain wore many hats throughout his illustrious career as one of the top 10 All India Badminton ranked player, a former National Tennis team player, pioneer sports journalist in Pakistan, proprietor, publisher, and founding editor of "SPORTIMES," Pakistan's first sports magazine.

His contributions to sports journalism were recognized by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in 2006 when they named the Media Box at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, in his honor. This space has since been renamed the Sultan F. Husain Media Hall, cementing his legacy in the annals of Pakistani cricket.

Known by a plethora of affectionate monikers, Sultan F. Husain was a beloved figure to many. He was variously called as Sultan Sb, Sonny, SF, Sonny Bhai, Sonny Maamu, Maamu Mian, Uncle, Sonny Uncle, Chana, Chum, Chanda Maamu, Chanda Naana, Sir, Sir Sultan, Daddy, Naana, and Daada by his family and friends.

On this special day, his children, Saadia and Kaisar, have requested well-wishers to recite Surat Faateha once and Surat Ikhlaas thrice for their father's forgiveness and eternal peace.

"May ALMIGHTY ALLAH bless his noble soul & may he always rest in eternal peace. Aameen. Summa Aameen!" they said in a statement.

Sultan F. Husain's creation of "SPORTIMES" magazine was a groundbreaking move in Pakistani sports media. It paved the way for comprehensive sports coverage in the country and inspired generations of sports journalists who followed.

His background as a national-level tennis player gave him unique insights into the world of sports, which he channeled into his journalistic endeavors. This combination of athletic experience and journalistic acumen made him a respected figure in both sporting and media circles.

The Sultan F. Husain Media Hall at Gaddafi Stadium stands as a testament to his contributions. It serves as a reminder of his pioneering spirit to every journalist who passes through its doors to cover cricket matches.

As Pakistan continues to make strides in the world of sports, the legacy of Sultan F. Husain remains an inspiration to athletes, journalists, and sports enthusiasts alike. His life's work continues to influence the way sports are covered and appreciated in Pakistan.

On this 110th birth anniversary, the Pakistani sports community remembers a man who not only reported on sports but helped shape the very nature of sports journalism in the country.

 

Zaheer-Ud-Din Babar Cup main event of Sunday’s LRC meet

Zaheer-Ud-Din Babar Cup main event of Sunday’s LRC meet

Asher Butt

The Zaheer-Ud-Din Babar Cup takes center stage on the fifth day of the winter meeting 2024-25, scheduled for Sunday. The event features four Pastime Plates, promising an action-packed day of horse racing.

The opening Pastime Plate, a Class VII and Division-VII race, boasts a field of 13 horses. Maze emerges as the frontrunner, with Silent Melody expected to secure a place. Abdullah Champion could potentially surprise spectators. Other contenders include Zuza, Gifts of Gold, Noor Princess, Flokey, Charming Baby, Sikandar Sapphire, Super Power, Elon Musk, Raftar, and I Shall Lead.

In the second race, a Class VII and Division-V&VI category, seven horses will compete. Zaman Sahib is favored to win, with Drago likely to place. Mumraiz Prince stands as a potential dark horse. Stardom, Public City, American Star, and Galileo Lady round out the field.

The third race, featuring Class VII and Division-III&IV horses, sees a field of eight. Flying Fire is tipped as the favorite, with Thunder Boy expected to follow. Absolutely Not could potentially upset the standings. Lady Champ, Welcome Sardar, Yesteryear, Moon One, and Generosity complete the lineup.

The highlight of the day, the Zaheer-Ud-Din Babar Cup, is a Term Race for 2-year-old Thoroughbred Pakistan-bred and Half-bred horses. This maiden race features six newcomers: Gabriela, Set In Stone, Brigadier, Sarkar Raj, Hero, and Status. No clear favorite has been declared for this event.

The final race of the day, a Class VII and Division-I&II competition, sees a field of eight. Suspicious One emerges as the favorite, with Desert Crown considered its closest rival. Wynx stands as a potential upset. Western Lady, Jhoom, Sehar, Puerto Rico, and Smile One complete the field.

This diverse lineup of races promises an exciting day for racing enthusiasts, with the Zaheer-Ud-Din Babar Cup serving as the pinnacle of the event.

Umpire promotions raise eyebrows, contradict PCB chairman’s policies

Umpire promotions raise eyebrows, contradict PCB chairman’s policies

Asher Butt 

The Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) recent announcement of umpire promotions for the 2024-25 season has sparked controversy, with internal sources revealing potential contradictions to the board's stated policies of merit, transparency, and fairness. According to reports, Senior Manager Umpires and Referees, Bilal Qureshi, allegedly bypassed standard protocols by securing direct approval from PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, while Director of Domestic Cricket Abdullah Khuram Niazi was kept in the dark about the developments.

The promotions, which see four umpires—Ahmad Shahab, Qaiser Waheed, Khalid Mehmood Sr., and Rana Arshad—elevated from the supplementary panel to the PCB Elite Panel, have raised serious questions about the internal dynamics of the PCB’s umpiring department. Notably, three of these umpires had previously been demoted from the elite panel due to performance issues, a move that stands in stark contrast to the usual practices of international cricket boards, such as the ICC, where demoted umpires rarely regain their positions at the highest level.

The handling of the promotions process has led to concerns over the influence of personal preferences and possible nepotism within the PCB. Sources claim that Bilal Qureshi deliberately kept Director Domestic Abdullah Khuram Niazi uninformed about the promotions, working independently to get the chairman’s direct approval. This approach contradicts the vision of Chairman Naqvi, who has emphasized merit, transparency, and adherence to performance standards as key elements in his leadership of the PCB.

The promotions of these four umpires, all over 50 and nearing retirement, have been particularly criticized for failing to align with the future-focused policies of international cricket. The ICC, for example, promotes young, fit, and educated umpires to build a sustainable pipeline of officiating talent, a practice that PCB had previously adhered to. The failure to incorporate younger umpires into the elite panel raises concerns about the board's ability to meet the growing demands of modern cricket.

One of the most significant issues highlighted is the lack of transparency in the annual assessment and promotion process. In PCB, umpire evaluations are reportedly based on secret reports from captains and referees, leaving performance assessments opaque. There have been accusations of manipulated reports, with no clear criteria for demotion. This secrecy has effectively sidelined young, talented umpires, further undermining the chairman’s push for fairness and meritocracy.

Bilal Qureshi, Senior Manager Umpires and Referees while commenting on the issue told The News: “The domestic cricket season 2024-25 is going to be a very busy season, with a number of new tournaments being inducted. Consequently, the operational need for umpires will be higher and so the umpires and referees department has elevated eight umpires, four each from development and supplementary panels.

“We follow a very transparent process in evaluating match officials at the end of each season. For the 2024-25 season, a thorough review of performances of all umpires based on captains’ and match referees’ reports from the last three domestic cricket seasons was taken into consideration.

“The performances of the match officials were reviewed by an internal committee consisted of Domestic and International Cricket Operations officials. Upon the recommendation of the committee, the promotions were signed-off by Chief Operating Officer and Chairman PCB.

“For the ongoing season, we have made a substantial increase in the match officials retainerships. Also, there has been an increase in match officials’ match fees and daily allowances,” added Bilal.

Critics argue that the lack of demotions in the latest round of assessments raises serious questions about the credibility of the process. Without transparent performance evaluations, the system appears to favor certain individuals, allowing personal preferences to dictate promotions, a practice that contradicts Chairman Naqvi’s stated commitment to fairness.

A retired international umpire, speaking on the condition of anonymity, expressed concern over the current state of the umpiring department, drawing comparisons with the past when young and fit umpires like Aleem Dar and Asad Rauf were promoted based on merit. He emphasized the need for the chairman and the Director of Domestic Cricket to intervene and rectify the situation, urging them to promote umpires who meet international standards of fitness, talent, and professionalism.

The former official also suggested that the PCB appoint an ex-international umpire or cricketer as the head of the umpiring department, in order to maintain the integrity and performance standards necessary to compete at both domestic and international levels.

As the PCB continues to project a commitment to transparency, merit, and the development of young talent under the leadership of Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, the recent umpire promotions reveal a concerning disconnect between policy and practice. The allegations surrounding Bilal Qureshi’s handling of the promotions raise serious questions about the internal functioning of the umpiring department and the fairness of the system. With the spotlight on the PCB’s internal governance, it remains to be seen how Chairman Naqvi and Director Domestic Abdullah Khuram Niazi will address these critical concerns moving forward.

However, Bilal remained mum on several other issues some of them like bypassing Director Domestic before getting chairman’s approval, ignored accusations of manipulated reports and also remained silent on demoted umpires promoted again.

The standard of umpiring was visible from the fact that Saud Shakeel slammed umpiring after Dolphins’ early exit from Champions Cup. Dolphins’ captain Saud Shakeel asserted umpiring decisions played a major role in their premature exit from the ongoing Champions One-Day Cup, which is being officiated by a panel of nine umpires. So with development of cricket there are other things attached to the game are also needed to be addressed. 

Thrilling upsets and favorites shine at LRC as Salaar, Star Crown, and Luckvir dominate

Thrilling upsets and favorites shine at LRC as Salaar, Star Crown, and Luckvir dominate

Asher Butt

A day of surprises and expected wins unfolded at the Lahore Race Club as horses and jockeys battled it out in a series of thrilling races. Favorites held strong in some races, while unexpected contenders shook up the leaderboard, making for an exciting and unpredictable day on the track.

1st Race: Salaar’s Stunning Victory

The opening race, anticipated to feature a fierce competition, saw Salaar rise to victory in a surprising turn of events. The horse, not among the top picks for the race, pulled off a stunning win. Moonlight, another unexpected performer, claimed second place, much to the surprise of onlookers, while Gifts of Gold rounded out the top three with a surprising third-place finish.

2nd Race - National University of Singapore Cup: Star Crown Upsets

In the National University of Singapore Cup, all eyes were on favorite Sikander Sapphire, but it was Star Crown that pulled off a major upset, finishing first against the odds. Sikander Sapphire managed to secure second place after a hard-fought battle but failed to meet expectations as the frontrunner. Flokey, who was projected to finish second, slipped to third place, completing a surprising reshuffling of the anticipated order.

3rd Race - Tughlaq Cup: Enchanting One Delivers

The Tughlaq Cup lived up to its billing with the favorite, Enchanting One, delivering as expected with a dominant performance. The horse comfortably claimed first place, reaffirming its status as the top contender. However, a surprise second-place finish by National Color caught many by surprise, while Maxi Macs, expected to finish third, held onto its predicted position.

4th Race: Princess Rukhtas’ Commanding Win

In the fourth race, Princess Rukhtas secured a commanding victory, meeting expectations by taking first place in style. Love Love pulled off a surprise by finishing second, upsetting the projections for this race. In a competitive run for third place, the outcome was between Freeze and Yesteryear, though final results settled on Sehar, making for an intense contest.

5th Race: Luckvir Dominates, Absolutely Not Surprises

The fifth and final race of the day saw favorite Luckvir charge ahead from the start, maintaining its dominance throughout the race to finish first. However, the surprise of the race was Absolutely Not, a long shot who defied expectations and secured an impressive second place. Kuwait Edition, another underdog, finished in third place, closing out a day filled with unexpected outcomes and thrilling finishes.

Conclusion: A Day of Surprises and Dominance

The day's races were a perfect blend of expected triumphs and upsets, showcasing the unpredictability of the sport. While favorites like Enchanting One and Luckvir delivered, unexpected winners like Star Crown and Salaar kept the excitement alive, ensuring an unforgettable day at the track for racing fans.

LRC day four winter meeting promises exciting evening

 LRC day four winter meeting promises exciting evening

Asher Butt

The 4th day of the Lahore Race Club's winter meeting promises to be an exciting affair with two cup races and three plate races scheduled for Sunday.

Cup Races:

National University of Singapore Cup: Sponsored by Dr. Atif Durrani, this 900-meter race features a field of eight maiden horses. The favorite to win is Sikandar Sapphire, with Flokey and Doctorbeing considered strong contenders for a place. Other horses in the race include Elon Musk, Raftar, Charming Baby, Star Crown, and Shall Lead.

Muhammad Tughlaq Cup: This 1100-meter race, also of Class VII and Division-I, features a field of eight horses. Enchanting One is seen as the leader of the pack, with Maxi Macs and Desert Crown expected to challenge. Brooklyn, Jhoom, Western Lady, Phantom, and National Colour are also in the running.

Plate Races:

Noor-Ud-Din Zangi Plate: This Class VII and Division-VI&VII race features nine horses. Vitoria is the favorite, with Salaar and Vartika considered potential dark horses. Other contenders include Galileo Lady, Super Power, Gifts of Gold, Statue of Liberty, Moon Light, and Jalthal.

Class VII and Division-II&III Plate: This race features nine horses, with Lady Champion and Princess Rukhtas seen as the top contenders. Money Heist is considered a surprise threat. Other horses in the race include Smile One, Yesteryear, Sehar, Welcome Sardar, Love Love, and Moon One.

Class VII and Division-IV&V Plate: This race features eight horses, with Luckvir and Self Belief considered the favorites. Absolutely Not, Kuwait Edition, Royal Macs, Zaman Sahib, Generosity, and Apple of My Eye are also in the running.

With a variety of races and competitive fields, the 4th day of the Lahore Race Club winter meeting is sure to be a thrilling day for racing enthusiasts.

PCB confirms match officials for 2024-25 with no major change

 PCB confirms match officials for 2024-25 with no major change

Asher Butt 

The Pakistan Cricket Board Sunday confirmed match officials for the 2024-25 cricket season following an annual appraisal process.

There is no change to the PCB Elite Panel of Match Referees, while, following feedback from the ICC, there is also no change in the ICC International Panel of Match Referees and Umpires.

Even there has been no significant change in the PCB’s panels of umpires of different categories either with no particular progress made at that level. And only a certain group of umpires holding firm at their positions no matter what age and qualification they carry.

Ahmed Shahab, Khalid Mehmood Sr., Rana Muhammad Arshad and Qaiser Waheed have been promoted to the PCB Elite Panel of Umpires from the PCB Supplementary Panel of Umpires. Qaiser will replace Shozab Raza, who will retire on 31 October.

The only four umpires to be promoted with recommendations from the development panel to the supplementary panel are: Anser Mahmood (with effect from 1 November), Jamshid Iqbal, Naseer Ahmed and Zeeshan Arif.

PCB International Panel of Match Referees: Ali Naqvi (Lahore), Muhammad Javed Malik (Multan)

PCB International Panel of Umpires: Aleem Dar (Lahore), Asif Yaqoob (Islamabad), Faisal Khan Aafreedi (Sargodha), Rashid Riaz Waqar (Lahore)

ICC International Panel of Development Umpires: Saleema Imtiaz (Karachi)

PCB Elite Panel of Match Referees: Aleem Khan Moosa (Karachi), Athar Laiq (Karachi), Bilal Moinul Haq Khiljee (Lahore), Iftikhar Ahmed (Karachi), Kamran Chaudhry (Lahore), Muhammad Aslam (Quetta), Muhammad Iqbal Sheikh (Hyderabad), Nadeem Arshad (Faisalabad) and Sohail Idrees (Lahore)

PCB Elite Panel of Umpires: Abdul Moqeet (Lahore), Ahmed Shahab (Lahore), Aleem Dar (Lahore), Aley Haider (Karachi), Asif Yaqoob (Islamabad), Aslam Bareach (Quetta), Faisal Khan Aafreedi (Sargodha), Farooq Ali Khan (Abbottabad), Ghulam Sarwar (Sibi), Imran Jawed (Karachi), Imranullah Aslam (Bahawalpur), Kashif Sohail (Khanewal), Khalid Mehmood Sr. (Karachi), Majid Hussain (AJK), Muhammad Asif (Lahore), Muhammad Sajid (Charsadda), Nasir Hussain (Lahore), Qaiser Waheed (Lahore), Rana Muhammad Arshad (Faisalabad), Rashid Riaz Waqar (Lahore), Saqib Khan (Abbottabad), Shozab Raza (Lahore), Syed Imtiaz Iqbal (Karachi), Tariq Rasheed (Lahore), Waleed Yaqub (Lahore) and Zulfiqar Jan (Charsadda)

PCB Supplementary Panel of Match Referees: Abu-al-Hasnat Rao (Lahore), Ahmer Saeed (Karachi), Ali Gohar (Karachi), Fazal Akbar Shah (Peshawar), Ghulam Mustafa (Kasur), Inamullah Khan (Lahore), Muhammad Amiruddin Ansari (Karachi), Saman Zulfiqar (Sheikhupura), Samiul Haq (Faisalabad) and Sohail Khan (Lahore)

PCB Supplementary Panel of Umpires: Abdul Karim (Naseerabad), Ahmed Nadeem (Peshawar), Aqeel Aadil Khan (Karachi), Asif Farooq Awan (Gujranwala), Dilshad Ali (Multan), Haroon Malik (Sargodha), Hashim Ali (Lodhran), Hassan Mahmood (Lahore), Irfan Haider (Islamabad), Jamshid Iqbal (Peshawar), Kamran Khalil (Lahore), Muhammad Basit (Lahore), Muhammad Fayyaz (Peshawar), Muhammad Imran (Sargodha), Muhammad Irfan Dilshad (Lahore), Muhammad Kaleem (Lahore), Muhammad Waqas (Lahore), Naseer Ahmed (Chakwal), Qaiser Waheed (Lahore), Rafiq Ahmad (Dadu), Raza Asghar (Sheikhupura), Saleem Butt (Rawalpindi), Sultan Mahmood (Loralai), Syed Fahim Ahmed Bukhari (Karachi), Waqar Ahmed (Islamabad) and Zeeshan Arif (Mirpur, AJK)

PCB Development Panel of Umpires: Aamer Atta (Dera Ghazi Khan), Abdul Basit (Rawalpindi), Abdul Qayoom (Karachi), Abrar Ahmed (Kasur), Adnan Rashid (Lahore), Ajmal Khan (Swat), Anser Mahmood (Pattoki),  Asim Alvi (Karachi), Farooq Anwar Bajwa (Faisalabad), Farooq Jan (Charsadda), Furqan Butt (Lahore), Ghayyur Hussain (Peshawar), Hameed Khan (Quetta), Hidayatullah (Pishin), Imran Naseem (Okara), Jaffar Hussian (Peshawar), Khalid Mahmood Jr (Quetta), Khalid Younas (Kohat), Khalil Ahmad Siddiqi (Kasur), Maqbool Ahmed (Faisalabad), Mehtab Hussain (Rawalpindi), Muhammad Aamir Sharif (Kohat), Muhammad Arif (Dera Ismail Khan), Muhammad Asif Jr (Multan), Muhammad Imran Jr (Bahawalnagar), Muhammad Masood Afridi (Peshawar), Muhammad Shafiqul Hai (Dera Ismail Khan), Muhammad Yousaf (Dera Ghazi Khan), Mumtaz Ali (Loralai), Muneeb Ahsan (Attock), Munir Ahmed (Kasur), Naik Muhammad (Kohat), Nasar Khan (Mardan), Naveed Khan (Nowshehra), Noor ul Hakam (Buner), Raweed Khan (Charsadda), Sadiq Amin (Charsadda), Sagheer Ahmed (Lahore), Saifullah Khan (Sargodha), Shahid Aslam (Karachi), Shahid Naseem (Rawalpindi), Sheraz Ahmed Rajput (Lahore), Sohail Khan (Charssada), Sohail Zaman Khattak (Peshawar), Waqas Zeb (Lahore) and Waseemuddin (Kohat)

PCB Women’s Panel of Umpires: Afia Amin (Lahore), Ayesha Farooq (Lahore), Fakhira Kazim Syeda (Muzaffarabad), Humairah Farah (Lahore), Nazia Nazir (Lahore), Riffat Mustafa (Kasur), Sabahat Rasheed (Lahore), Saleema Imtiaz (Karachi), Sania Ashraf (Lahore), Shakila Rafiq (Kasur), Sukhan Faiz (Multan), Sumaira Sajid (Lahore) and Zakia Gul (Khairpur)

Surprise winners dominate LRC's Sunday races

 Surprise winners dominate LRC's Sunday races

Asher Butt

LAHORE: The Lahore Race Club witnessed a day full of upsets on Sunday as surprise winners triumphed in all five races, with Babar King claiming the prestigious Ginza Cup.

Other unexpected victors included Salaar, Royal Macs, Porto Rico, and Royal Baby, adding excitement to the third day of the winter meeting that also saw jockey Awais Anjum winning four while riding Royal Macs, Babar King, Porto Rico, and Royal Baby.

 

1st Race: Salaar's Fluke Win

In the opening race, Salaar emerged victorious as a fluke, defying expectations. Gifts of Gold, the predicted frontrunner, managed to secure second place, while Mumraiz Prince surprised many by finishing third.

 

2nd Race: Royal Macs Upsets the Field

The second race saw Royal Macs cause a major upset by taking first place. Mumraiz Love, as expected, finished second, but the real surprise was Zaman Sahib, who claimed the third spot against the odds.

 

3rd Race: Babar King Wins Ginza Cup

In the featured Ginza Cup, Babar King, seen as a fluke entry, stunned the field by winning the race. Pre-race favorite Farhan Prince was forced to settle for second place, while Maxi Macs secured a surprise third-place finish.

 

4th Race: Porto Rico's Unexpected Triumph

Porto Rico, expected to place but not win, surprised the crowd by taking first place in the fourth race. The favorite, Tahira, was relegated to second place, while Absolutely Not completed the top three in a surprising turn of events.

 

5th Race: Royal Baby Ends Day of Surprises

The final race of the day saw Royal Baby, another fluke entry, clinch victory. Sikandar Saphine, the pre-race favorite, had to settle for second, while Flokey, expected to finish second, ended the race in third place.

 

The day's results added an unexpected twist to the winter racing season at Lahore Race Club, with all eyes now on the upcoming races to see if more surprises are in store.

LRC's winter meeting features Ginza Cup, Tora Bora Plates on Sunday

 LRC's winter meeting features Ginza Cup, Tora Bora Plates

Asher Butt

The Lahore Race Club is set to host an exciting day of racing on Sunday (today) as part of its 3rd day winter meeting. The event will feature a total of five races, including the highly anticipated Ginza Cup and four Tora Bora Plates. All races are scheduled to cover a distance of 1000 metres, providing thrilling short-distance action for racegoers.

 

The day will begin with the Tora Bora Plate(Class VII, Division VI & VII), where Silent Melody is considered the favourite to win among a field of nine horses. Gifts of Gold is seen as a strong contender for second place, while Salaar is expected to offer a surprise challenge. Other participants in the opening race includes Mumraiz Prince, Merchant of Venus, Galileo Lady, Abdullah Champion, Statue of Liberty, and Ubbi

 

The second (Class VII, Division IV & V)race of the day features another competitive lineup of nine horses. Agha Prince is tipped as the favourite, with Mumraiz Love expected to secure second place. Al Mabrook could surprise the field with a strong performance. The other horses competing in this race are Fairy World, Zaman Sahib, Kuwait Edition, Stardom, Royal Macs, and Vartika.

 

The prestigious (Class VII, Division I & II) Ginza Cup will be the third race of the day, featuring seven talented horses. Farhan Prince is the favourite, with Phantom expected to place. Babar King could prove to be a wildcard in this race. The other horses vying for victory in the Ginza Cup are Western Lady, Maxi Macs, Sehar, and Flight Line.

 

In the fourth (Class VII, Division II, III & IV) race, Tahira is predicted to take the lead, with Porto Rico likely to follow closely in second place. However, Welcome Sardar may surprise everyone with a strong finish. The remaining competitors includes Absolutely Not, Lake City One, Lady Champion, and Shinning Moon.

 

The final (Class VII, Division VII) race of the day will feature a maiden run with nine horses. Sikandar Sapphire is the one to watch for a likely victory, while Flokey is expected to come in second. Royal Baby is viewed as a potential fluke. The rest of the field consists of Elon Musk, Latin Storm, Charming Baby, Raftar, Noor Princess, and Star Crown.

 

As the winter meeting continues, the competition is expected to be fierce, with all horses and jockeys aiming to secure victory in these high-stakes races. Fans and spectators will be eagerly watching the action unfold at the Lahore Race Club.

 

Surprises and favourites shine in Sunday’s LRC races

 Lahore Race Club Highlights: Surprises and Favourites Shine in Sunday’s Races

Asher Butt

The Lahore Race Club saw a day filled with both expected victories and surprising outcomes in its Sunday races, as competitors vied for top honours in several high-stakes events.

Naik Saif Ali Janjua Shaheed Nishan-e-Haider Cup

The opening race of the day, the Naik Saif Ali Janjua Shaheed Nishan-e-Haider Cup, saw a notable upset as Royal Macs clinched victory. The favourite, Silent Melody, was edged out into second place, while Super Power, a well-anticipated competitor, finished in third.

Hawaldar Lalak Jan Cup

In the second race, the Hawaldar Lalak Jan Cup, Absolutely Not emerged as the unexpected winner, defeating the favourite Not Luckvir, who settled for second place. Vitoria, another top contender, finished in third place, failing to secure a higher position as anticipated.

Sawar Muhammad Hussain Cup

The Sawar Muhammad Hussain Cup, the third race of the day, saw the favourite Lady Champion take the top spot. The result was less predictable for the following places, with Self Belief securing an unexpected second place, and Generosity, a surprise contender, rounding out the top three in third place.

Captain Muhammad Sarwar Cup

In the fourth race, the Captain Muhammad Sarwar Cup, Desert Crown lived up to its status as the favourite by winning convincingly. Wynx, a surprise entrant, finished in second place, while Puerto Rico, expected to place higher, ended up in third.

Naik Muhammad Mahfooz Cup

The Naik Muhammad Mahfooz Cup was a notable disappointment as it was cancelled and declared void. This race’s void status left many spectators and participants eager for clarification on the reasons behind the cancellation.

Defence Day Cup

The final race of the day, the Defence Day Cup, concluded with Galileo Lady living up to its favourite status by securing the win. Merchant of Venus, a surprise contender, finished in second place, while Ubbi, another favourite for a top finish, ended in third.

The day’s races highlighted both anticipated victories and surprising upsets, making for a thrilling and eventful day at the Lahore Race Club.

LRC to host six cup events paying tribute to armed forces martyrs

 LRC to host six cup events paying tribute to armed forces martyrs

 

Asher Butt

The Lahore Race Club is set to host six races today as part of its 2nd day winter meeting, paying homage to the martyrs of the armed forces. All six events will be cup races, five of which are named after recipients of the Nishan-e-Haider, while the final race honors Defence Day.

The five Nishan-e-Haider Cup races are named in memory of Naik Saif Ali Janjua, Hawaldar Lalak Jan, Sawar Muhammad Hussain, Captain Muhammad Sarwar, and Lance Naik Muhammad Mahfooz. The fifth race, the Naik Muhammad Mahfooz Cup, will be contested over 1100 meters, while all other races will be run over a mile.

The day's opening race, the Naik Saif Ali Janjua Shaheed Nishan-e-Haider Cup, features a Class VII and Division-VI&VII lineup. Silent Melody is the favorite, with Super Power expected to take second place. A surprise win could come from Pocket Power. The remaining runners include Royal Macs, Jalthal, Pride of Chandrai, and Fakhr-e-Sahi.

In the Hawaldar Lalak Jan Cup, featuring Class VII and Division-V&VI horses, Vitoria is the frontrunner. Zaman Sahib is poised to place, while Luckvir is a potential upset. Other participants include Absolutely Not, Al Mabrook, Monsoon Mischief, and Agha Prince.

The Sawar Muhammad Hussain Cup, the third race of the day, showcases Class VII and Division-IV competitors. Lady Champion is expected to win, with Apple of My Eye close behind. Generosity may deliver a surprise victory. Also in the lineup are Self Belief, Kuwait Edition, Fairy World, and Stardom.

The Captain Muhammad Sarwar Cup, the fourth race, features a field of nine horses in Class VII and Division-II&III. Desert Crown is the favorite, with Puerto Rico likely to place. Tahira is considered a long shot. Other competitors include Welcome Sardar, Wynx, Love Love, Yes Commander, Deedavar, and Shinning Moon.

The Naik Muhammad Mahfooz Cup, the fifth race, features Class VII and Division-I&II horses over 1100 meters. Farhan Prince is expected to lead the pack, with National Colour close behind. Enchanting One may surprise the field. The remaining runners are Western Lady, Maxi Macs, and Sehar.

The final event, the Defence Day Cup, features a Class VII and Division-VI&VII lineup. Galileo Lady is the favorite, with Flokey expected to take second place. Ubbi may deliver a surprise. Other contenders include Amazing Star, Merchant of Venus, Statue of Liberty, Sikandar Sapphire, and Abdullah The Great.

 

Underdogs triumph at LRC amidst tribute to army

 Underdogs triumph at LRC amidst tribute to army

Asher Butt

 The Lahore Race Club witnessed an exciting day of racing on Sunday, as a mix of favorites and underdogs claimed victories in their respective races. However, the day was dominated by the non-favorites, showcasing the unpredictable nature of horse racing.

The event was dedicated to honoring the armed forces officials who have been awarded the Nishan-e-Haider for their sacrifices to the nation. The LRC marked the occasion with great fervor and enthusiasm.

In the first race, the Kernel Sher Khan Cup, Monsoon Mischief, a longshot, emerged victorious, defeating the favorite Gifts Of Gold and surprising third-place finisher Galileo Lady.

The second race, the Maior Muhammad Akram Cup, saw another underdog, Vartika, deliver a stunning performance to claim the win. Silent Melody, the favorite, finished second, while Moonlight secured a surprising third-place finish.

The Pilot Officer Rashid Minhas Cup was won by Flying Fire, who lived up to expectations. Vitoria, a surprise contender, finished second, and Generosity, another longshot, took third.

In the fourth race, the Major Shabbir Sharif Cup, an unknown horse named Sundari stretched to win, while Farhan Prince, another longshot, managed to secure second place. The favorite, Baber King, finished third.

The Major Raja Aziz Bhatti Cup produced one of the biggest surprises of the day as Princess Rukhtas claimed victory. Handsome, the favorite, finished second, and Desert Crown, an unknown competitor, took third.

The final race, the Major Tufail Muhammad Cup, was won by Al Mabrook, a longshot. Mumraiz Love, a surprise contender, finished second, while the favorite, Dill Lagi, took third.

Overall, the day at the Lahore Race Club was filled with excitement and unpredictability, as underdogs defied the odds and claimed victories. The event also served as a fitting tribute to the armed forces officials who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.