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.