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Pakistan non-main sports performance thread

Pak Army dominates National Weightlifting Championship, breaks 3 national records

The 66th Men's and 6th Women's National Weightlifting Championship 2024, held from October 7-12 at Railway Stadium Lahore, saw Pak Army's weightlifters dominate the event.

Competing against provincial and departmental teams across 10 categories, Pak Army's men and women teams won 8 gold medals, breaking 3 national records in the process.

Defending champions Pakistan WAPDA, who entered the competition with high expectations, were dethroned after a fierce battle that lasted until the final moments. WAPDA managed to break 2 national records but ultimately came in second.

Pak Army's men and women teams secured first place with 98 and 112 points, respectively. WAPDA finished as runners-up, with 89 points for their men's team and 102 for their women’s.

In total, the Pak Army won 8 gold, 7 silver, and 3 bronze medals, securing their first victory in the championship. The championship, held under the traditional points-based format, was a testament to the competitive spirit of both teams.


Samaa TV
 
Pakistan's Shahzeb Khan wins gold in Asia Open Taekwondo Championship

Pakistan's Shahzeb Khan won the gold medal by defeating Calamba of the Philippines in the final of the -54kg weight category at the Asia Open Khyurogi Taekwondo Championship.

In the first round, Calamba scored 11 points and Shahzeb managed six.

In the second round, Shahzeb played brilliantly and won by 10-3 and then won the third round 18-0 to win Pakistan's first gold medal in the event.

Earlier, Shahzeb qualified for the final by defeating Hidayat Tomakaka of Indonesia 12-14, 16-14 and 22-0 in the semi-final.

In the +87 kg weight category final, Kablan of Kazakhstan won the gold medal by defeating Hamza Saeed of Pakistan by a margin of 5-1 and 4-4 points.

Meanwhile, Pakistan Olympic Association President Syed Abid Qadri, Secretary General Khalid Mahmood, Chairperson Special Olympics Pakistan Ronak Lakhani, Pakistan Taekwondo Federation President Col Waseem Janjua and CEO Omar Saeed congratulated Shahzeb for winning gold and Hamza Saeed for winning silver medals for Pakistan.


Geo TV
 
Pakistan make history at Asian Taekwondo Championship with 8 medals

Pakistan’s taekwondo team made history at the 6th Asian Open (Kyorugi) Taekwondo Championship in Indonesia, securing the championship title with an impressive tally of three gold, three silver, and two bronze medals.

This achievement marks a significant milestone, as it is the first time both male and female athletes from Pakistan have accomplished such a feat at an international taekwondo event abroad.

In a fiercely contested championship, Pakistan clinched first place, followed by Kazakhstan in second and Malaysia in third. The event, held from October 14 to 17, showcased the rising talent of Pakistani athletes on the Asian stage.

On Thursday, Haroon Khan delivered a standout performance in the -58kg category, defeating compatriot Abubakar to win gold. Khan won the final with scores of 6-4 and 9-7, showcasing his skill and determination throughout the match.

In the women’s -73kg final, Manisha Ali also triumphed, earning gold after defeating Indonesia's Paramata Sari 4-1 and 8-2.

Earlier, Shahzaib, competing in the -54kg category, secured a gold medal for Pakistan.

The medal winners from Pakistan included:

Gold: Shahzaib (-54 kg), Haroon Khan (-58 kg), Manisha Ali (-73 kg)

Silver: Abubakar (-58 kg), Ikhtasham Ul Haq (-87 kg), Hamza Omer Saeed (+87 kg)

Bronze: Mazhar Abbas (-80 kg), Malia Ali (-73 kg)

The Pakistani team was awarded the "Best Team" title, with Shahzaib recognised as the "Best Athlete" of the championship and Yousaf Karami named "Best Coach."


GEO TV
 

Aadam Syed wins Bahrain Amateur Open Golf Championship title​


Aadam Syed of Rawalpindi Golf Club won Bahrain Amateur Open Golf Championship via his stellar performance at the tournament, finishing on top with a score of -13 after three rounds and 54 holes.

His total of 203 strokes (68, 67, 68) placed him ahead of his nearest competitor, Jay Mullane, who concluded the tournament at -9 (207).

The championship featured a competitive field, with Issa Abou El Ela in third place at -8 (208). Aadam’s consistent performance throughout the tournament showcased his emerging talent in the sport.

Recently graduated with a master’s degree in sports sciences from the University of Tampa, USA, Aadam has ambitions of turning professional. He earned his professional playing card for the 2025 season at the Professional Qualifying School in Pakistan and also secured a card for the Clutch Tour in the UK for the same year.

Aadam will kick off his professional career at the upcoming Garrison Open Golf Championship in Lahore, scheduled for October 30 to November 3, 2024. He is set to arrive in Lahore on October 21, 2024, for his debut event.

His victory at the Bahrain Amateur Open not only adds to his accolades but also grants him a spot in the DP World Tour and an invitation to the King Hamad Trophy. The success reflects the growing strength of Pakistan's golfing community and serves as an inspiration for aspiring golfers in the country.

The Pakistan Golf Federation (PGF) congratulated Aadam on his achievement, expressing hopes for his continued success in professional golf.

 
Pakistan to urge Commonwealth Games to reconsider exclusion of hockey, wrestling: sources

The Pakistan Olympic Association (POA) has decided to formally write to the Commonwealth Games Federation over its decision to exclude hockey and wrestling from the 2026 Commonwealth Games, according to sources familiar with the matter.

Reliable sources said the POA will send an official letter to the CGF, urging it to reconsider the exclusion of these sports, which are seen as Pakistan’s medal prospects in the game.

The decision to drop several sports, including hockey and wrestling, from the Games in Glasgow has already caught criticism from various quarters.

The source added that Indian Olympic body is also unhappy with the decision and they’re likely to join POA in writing the commonwealth sports body to press for inclusion of hockey and wrestling.

“We are planning to write a letter in this week to express our concerns over the decision to remove these sports and to request them to reconsider their decision,” the source said.

It added that in a recent regional meeting held in Male, Maldives, on September 24-25, 2024, the Commonwealth Games Association of Pakistan (in this case, the POA) had recommended to CGF officials that hockey and wrestling be included in the upcoming Games. They also submitted in writing advocating for the inclusion of these sports.

Sources added that the POA plans to take up the issue once again with the CGF.

“They were also considering to drop weightlifting from the list of sports as well. However, there were strong resistance from several members, including Pakistan, against omitting weightlifting from the list,” the source added.


 
Pakistani athletics legend Malik Muhammad Younis dies at 77

Malik Muhammad Younis, one of Pakistan's most celebrated middle-distance runners whose national records have stood for nearly five decades, passed away on Tuesday due to a heart attack, his family and Athletics Federation of Pakistan confirmed.

He was 77.

Younis, widely regarded as a pioneer in Pakistani athletics, represented Pakistan in the 800m and 1500m events across multiple international competitions throughout the 1970s. Known for his endurance and speed, Younis clinched 56 gold medals domestically and 27 golds internationally. His most notable victories include a gold medal at the 1974 Asian Games in Tehran and a double podium finish at the 1973 Asian Track & Field Championships in Manila, where he won gold and silver.

His funeral prayers will be held on Monday in his hometown of Turap, in the Attock District, where he will be laid to rest, said his family.


 
PSB constitutes interim committee to oversee PWF’s affairs

The Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) has formed an Interim Committee to manage the affairs of the Pakistan Weightlifting Federation (PWF).

This decision follows the suspension of the PWF, headed by Hafiz Imran Butt, due to serious irregularities, corrupt practices, and anti-doping code violations, said a notification issued here.

The Interim Committee, chaired by Brig (R) Zahid Iqbal, comprises Col. (R) Hafiz Dr. Zafar Iqbal and Nuzhat Jabeen as members.

The PSB has issued a notification informing Provincial Sports Boards and relevant government departments responsible for sports to refrain from corresponding or cooperating with the suspended PWF. Instead, they are requested to facilitate the Interim Committee in weightlifting affairs.

The PWF was suspended in July 2022 in PSB’s 25th meeting, after a report from the delegate (appointed by PSB on the directions of Lahore High Court) citing serious irregularities in the Federation’s functioning, corrupt practices, and violations of the anti-doping code.

 

With global dreams, Pakistan's self-trained surfers making waves across social media​


Despite his father's concerns, limited equipment, and Karachi's challenging waves, Attiq Ur Rehman remains resolute in his dream to become Pakistan's first professional surfer, aiming to compete globally and bring home glory.

"I don’t care about the money right now. I just want to compete," he says, brushing aside his father's request to start fishing so that he could be married off and support his family.

The 21-year-old's family lives among a destitute community along the coast in southern Pakistan that usually makes a living from fishing or as lifeguards watching over visitors at the beach.

His father makes the equivalent of $100 a month to feed a family of 10 through fishing.

"I told him a thousand times (to stop surfing) but he still doesn't listen," said Rehman's father, Muhammad Rafiq.

Rehman was a lifeguard but gave it up to concentrate on his surfing, which he started aged nine, and founded a new community that calls itself "Surfers of Bulleji".

The group has grown to around 50 and have gone viral on social media in a country where cricket and hockey are the main sports.

The group consists of surfing enthusiasts from surrounding coastal villages, some aged as young as eight.

On a sunny day, their passion for surfing is on display with the right window for waves to surf along a near-empty beach close to the metropolis of 20 million.

One of the cohorts, Mujahid Baloch, a 24-year-old fisherman, first saw surfing on social media and instantly took a shine to it.

"Slowly, through watching, we learned. No one taught us," he said.

Though Sri Lanka and the Maldives to the south are on global surfers' hit lists, Pakistan's arid 1,000km (620 miles) of coastline is usually poorly suited for surfing, relying on local winds to generate waves that are often small and messy, or rare cyclone swells.

"When all of Karachi was being given an advisory to stay away from the sea, and a cyclone was approaching, me and the boys were getting ready to go to the beach," said Rehman. "The waves were ideal for us."

While an occasional visiting surfer might join them for a paddle and some other villages along the coast have small surfing groups, competition with global peers is a challenge.

The International Surfing Association has 116 member countries, including places such as Ukraine and land-locked Switzerland, but Pakistan is not on the list.

Still, members of "Surfers of Bulleji" idolise American professional surfer Kelly Slater, whose videos they often watch awe-struck, and wish to emulate his skill.

But access to surfing equipment is limited in Pakistan, with the group sharing about 25 surfboards and pitching in for repairs when they are needed.

They sometimes find discarded boards in large containers of junk brought to Pakistan from around the world. They buy these junked boards for as little as $35 and repair them using basic materials like glue and resin.

"If it breaks, we repair it. Because we don't have surfboards here," Baloch said. Pointing to a piece of foam, he said it was found at sea and shaped into a make-shift board. "If we find more such foam, we can make our own boards here," he said.

"Our community is getting bigger and stronger, so the shopkeepers know we will come and keep such finds safe for us," says Rehman.

 
Pakistani Athletes Shine at Istanbul Marathon

Amjad Ali made history as Pakistan's fastest finisher at the Istanbul Marathon, crossing the line in 2: 49: 29 and securing 47th place overall.

Ethiopia's Dejene Debela took the top spot, completing the grueling course in 2: 11 :40

Other notable Pakistani performances included:

- Muzammil Khan Niazi (3: 13 :45)
- Bilal Umar (3: 45 :58)
- Ali Khurshid, Rohail Ahmed, Asad Tuneker, and Muhammad Adnan, who all finished under four hours.

These impressive showings demonstrate the growing strength and endurance of Pakistani long-distance runners.
 
Pakistani cueist Asif reaches IBSF World Snooker Championship final

Pakistan's Muhammad Asif has reached the final of the IBSF World Snooker Championship in Qatar on Tuesday, defeating Cyprus cueist Michael Georgiou 5-3 in a closely contested semifinal match.

Asif, a two-time world champion, overcame an early setback after losing the first two frames to Georgiou.

He rallied with a series of four straight wins, recording scores of 53-57, 5-71, 94-0, 111-6, 77-45, 73-9, 24-74, and finally sealing the match at 58-51.

His performance included a century break in the fourth frame — his fifth of the tournament.


 

Mohammad Asif becomes World Snooker Champion for third time​


Pakistani cueist Mohammad Asif has become the World Snooker Champion for the third time.

In a thrilling final of the IBSF World Snooker Championship, Asif defeated Iran’s Asian champion Ali Ghareghozlou 5-3 to claim the title.

According to reports from Qatar, Mohammad Asif continued his brilliant form in the 9-frame final, dominating his opponent and securing victory. With this success, Asif became the World Snooker Champion for the third time.

Asif's victory also ties him with India's Pankaj Advani, who has won the World Snooker Championship three times.

The Pakistani cueist made a remarkable performance throughout the tournament, setting a record by making six century breaks. He reached the final after defeating Cyprus' Michael Georgiou 5-3 in an exciting match.

Mohammad Asif, aged 42, from Faisalabad, first won the IBSF World Snooker Championship in 2012 and went on to win it again in 2019.

Congratulations pour in

Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Pakistan Snooker and Billiards Association, Alamgir Sheikh, and other officials congratulated Mohammad Asif on his outstanding victory, calling it a great honour for Pakistan.

They expressed hope that, just like Arshad Nadeem’s gold medal in javelin throw at the Paris Olympics, Mohammad Asif’s third world title will also be recognized and rewarded with accolades.

 
Pakistan kicked off its Baseball United Arab Classic campaign in style, thrashing Bangladesh 10-0 in their inaugural group match in Dubai. Jibran Murtaza's exceptional pitching and standout performances from Mohammad Hussain, Zain, and Waseem spearheaded the victory. Hussain's remarkable ballpark homerun further cemented Pakistan's dominance.

Currently ranked 38th globally, Pakistan faces the UAE's newly formed baseball team in its second group match tonight at 9:30 p.m. PKT. Drawn into Group A, Pakistan will also contend with India, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and the UAE in the nine-team tournament. The highly anticipated Pakistan-India showdown is slated for Friday evening.

Pakistan's squad boasts a talented lineup, including Sameer Ahmed Khatri, Zan Shariff Von Schlegell, Amar Bilal Mahmood, and 17 other skilled players.
 
Pakistan's Asim Khan scripts triumphant start to London Open Squash Championship

Pakistan’s Asim Khan has begun his campaign at the London Open squash tournament with a solid victory, defeating New Zealand’s Temwa Chileshe in the opening round.

Khan took the match in straight games with scores of 11-9, 11-6, and 11-15.

Asim displayed strong form throughout the game, maintaining control and swiftly responding to Chileshe's tactics.

After winning the first two games comfortably, Asim had to battle hard in the third game, which he won after a tough contest.

The Pakistani player’s commanding performance marks a promising start to his run in this PSA World Tour Copper event.

In the tournament’s second round, Khan faces a tougher challenge against top seed Auguste Dussourd of France.

The London Open, carrying a prize pool of $33,000.

Khan, currently placed at 60th position in PSA ranking, is the highest ranked Pakistani player in international squash rankings, and at London Open, he aims to further improve his position.

SAMAA
 
Pakistani golfer Ahmed Baig secured an impressive fifth-place finish at the Asian Development Tour's ADT Ambassador Open in Taiwan. Baig's four-round total score of two-under-par showcased his consistency and skill at the Hsin Feng Golf Country Club.

Baig began with a one-over-par 73 on day one, followed by another one-over-par score in round two. However, he rebounded strongly in round three with a four-under-par performance, featuring seven birdies. In the final round, Baig carded a par-72, highlighted by an eagle on the ninth hole.

Despite double bogeys on the sixth hole in the first two rounds, Baig demonstrated an attacking approach throughout the tournament. His stats included 17 birdies, 39 pars, and 13 bogeys.

Thailand's Witchayapa ultimately claimed the title.
 
Pakistan thrashed hosts UAE 12-1 to take home the trophy at the inaugural Baseball United Arab Classic on Sunday, remaining undefeated throughout the tournament

A total of nine nations took part in the tournament held at the Baseball United Ballpark at The Sevens in Dubai.

Pakistan began the series with a 10-0 win over Bangladesh, followed by a commanding 10-3 win over the United Arab Emirates in Dubai on Friday.

Pakistan then recorded back-to-back victories against India (12-0) and Afghanistan (17-3) to enter the semi-finals.

Muhammad Hussain was named MVP (Most Valuable Player) for the tournament.

Ambassador Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, Pakistan’s Envoy to the UAE, extended his heartfelt congratulations to the team.

“Pakistan’s victory in a sport that is not widely played back home has taken everyone by surprise. This win reflects the determination, skill, and dedication of our athletes,” Tirmizi was quoted as saying in a statement posted on X by Pakistan’s Embassy in the UAE.

He emphasised that this success strengthens Pakistan’s sports reputation internationally. “We look forward to more such achievements and to furthering the spirit of sportsmanship between our nations,” he added.

Hussain Muhammad, Consul General along with other diplomats of the Pakistan Consulate in Dubai, were present at the stadium. While celebrating the remarkable win, the Consul General congratulated the players and management of the team for their efforts and dedication, the statement added.

“Congratulations to Pakistan on their incredible victory,” said Kash Shaikh, Chairman, CEO, and Co-Founder, of Baseball United.

“This was the largest and most competitive baseball tournament in the history of the region, and the Pakistan team showed they are not only one of Asia’s top teams, but they are on the path to compete with the best baseball-playing nations in the world. Congratulations to Manager, Syed Shah, the entire team, and the country of Pakistan on this impressive championship.”

Baseball United is the first professional baseball league focused on the Middle East and the Subcontinent and was founded in 2022, according to its website.

Source: Dawn News
 
India denies visas to most Pakistan players for Scrabble competitions

The Indian High Commission has refused to issue visas to most Pakistani players, preventing the defending champions from participating in the Asia Cup Youth Scrabble Championship and Delhi Cup.

Despite submitting applications two months in advance, the Indian High Commission has delayed processing, issuing some visas too late for players to attend, Pakistan Scrabble Association (PSA) Director Tariq Pervez told state-run APP.

He said half the team was denied visas without explanation, including players who had previously participated and won in India in 2022.

As reigning World Youth Champions and defending Asian Youth titleholders, Pakistan's absence is a significant blow, he said.

Pervez said the team had traveled to Lahore in anticipation of receiving visas but will now return to Karachi disappointed.

The championship organisers, who had obtained necessary clearances, were cooperative and assured Pakistani players of visas. However, the Indian High Commission's actions caught them off guard.

The scrabble association expressed disappointment, citing India's failure to uphold sporting spirit.

The Pakistan team will now focus on upcoming international competitions, hoping for a more favourable outcome, he said.


 
Noor wins thriller to make CAS Squash semis

Pakistan’s top player Noor Zaman beat Perry Malik of England in a thrilling quarter-final of the CAS Serena Hotels International Squash Championship here at the Mushaf Squash Complex on Wednesday.

Second seed Noor overcame Malik 14-12, 5-11, 11-7, 10-12, 11-7 in a clash lasting 54 minutes.

After Noor won the first game 14-12, Malik made a strong comeback to claim the second game 11-5. In a seesaw match, Noor bounced back to win the next game 11-7 only for Malik to bag the fourth game 12-10.

In the decisive game, Noor defeated his opponent 11-7 to move into the last-four stage where he will face compatriot Ashab Irfan, who got the better of Dutch Rowan Damming 10-12, 11-2, 11-9, 11-5 in their quarter-final that lasted 48 minutes.

Nasir Iqbal, another Pakistan campaigner, beat Seif El Shenawy of Egypt 10-12, 11-4, 11-4, 11-5 in a last-eight match that lasted 35 minutes. Nasir in the semi-final will face top seed Ibrahim Elkabbani of Egypt who comfortably downed Malaysia’s Darren 17-15, 11-6, 11-5.

DAWN NEWS
 
Pakistan Makes History at World MMA Championship 2024

KARACHI: Muhammad Saqib has become Pakistan’s first-ever World Champion in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) after securing a gold medal in the Under-18 (52.2kg) category at the World MMA Championship 2024 in Jakarta, Indonesia. Alongside him, Mahmood Kamal won two bronze medals in the -93kg and +93kg categories, marking a historic achievement for Pakistan.

The championship, organized by the Global Association of Mixed Martial Arts (GAMMA), featured over 600 athletes from 63 countries. Despite limited resources and just six players representing Pakistan, the nation delivered a stellar performance.

PMMAF President Zulfiqar Ali congratulated the athletes, stating: This historic achievement is a testament to the hard work and resilience of our players. Despite challenges, they continue to make Pakistan proud on the world stage.

He urged authorities to invest in facilities and training to support the country’s rising MMA stars.
 

Pakistan Padel Open 2024 registers record participation​


The Pakistan Padel Open 2024, hosted by Legends Arena, has come to a spectacular end, cementing its place as the biggest padel tournament ever held in Pakistan.

This year’s event saw unprecedented participation, with over 180 players competing across five categories, including some of the best players from Norway, making it a truly international affair.

The tournament delivered high-octane performances, nail-biting finishes, and was packed with unforgettable highlights. Here are the final standings:

Category A (Men’s): Category A (Men’s): Farhan Mustafa, the defending champion, partnered with Abdur Rehman to retain the title with a commanding 6-4, 6-4 win over Norwegian partners Bilal and Samir.
Category B+: The duo of Ammar Shaikh and Shehroz Faheem claimed victory with a 6-3, 6-4 win over Ali Shahid and Azhar Katchi.
Category B: Saad Noman and Hamza Nafees Yaqoob emerged victorious with a decisive 6-4, 6-1 triumph over Rayyan Younus and Shakir Sangani.
Ladies’ Category: Mehak Taherani and Saira Umar claimed the title in a thrilling three-set battle, defeating sisters Hasnat and Rania Hashwani with a final score of 6-3, 3-6, 6-3.
Mixed Category: Hamzah Bokhari and Hasnat Hashwani put on a dominant display to win 7-5, 6-1 against Gul Muhammad Taherani and Mehak Taherani.

This year’s tournament was further elevated by the participation of Norwegian Padel, whose four teams, led by their team manager, Mr. Soliman Sarwar, added an international flavor to the competition.

The tournament also welcomed prominent Norwegian players like Bilal Ahmed, Samir Almas, Christopher Ulsrud, and Haroon, who put on incredible performances, with Bilal and Samir finishing as runners-up in Category A.

A Historic Event for Pakistan:

The Pakistan Padel Open 2024 set new milestones, with its unmatched scale and quality. It was a testament to the growing popularity of padel in Pakistan, driven by the efforts of Legends Arena to establish world-class infrastructure and organize premier tournaments.

Prize Distribution Ceremony:

The prize distribution ceremony was graced by the presence of Mr. Jahangir Khan, Chairman of Total Sports and a sporting legend. He, along with representatives from the sponsors, presented trophies and cash prizes to the winners and runners-up of all categories.

Additionally, the tournament included consolation rounds for the Ladies and Men’s Category A. Asma Zaid and Saira Ammad took honors in the Ladies’ consolation round.

Meanwhile Munib Iqbal and Shakir Balagamwala triumphed in Men’s Category A.

Closing Remarks:

Speaking at the event, Christopher Ulsrud, a participant from Norway, praised the tournament’s organization, saying, “The experience here has been incredible, and the hospitality and competition in Pakistan have been top-notch.”

As the Pakistan Padel Open 2024 concludes, Legends Arena reaffirms its commitment to growing the sport of padel in Pakistan. With plans for more international events, the journey of elevating Pakistan’s sports landscape continues.

 
Pakistan's tennis prodigy, Muhammad Hassan Usmani, has brought pride to the nation by clinching both the singles and doubles titles at the ATF U14 Jeddah tournament, organized by the Saudi Tennis Federation.

The championship witnessed a historic moment as the legendary Rafael Nadal attended as the chief guest, personally presenting the trophies to the young star.

Showcasing remarkable skill and determination, Usmani triumphed over top-seeded Suleyman Hudayberdiyev of Turkmenistan with an impressive 6-3, 6-1 victory to secure the singles title.
 
No progress in departmental sports revival

Some leading departments have stayed away from the National Hockey Championship under way in Karachi. Similarly, there has been no progress in reviving departmental soccer teams despite clear instructions from the Prime Minister.

Both Sui Southern and Sui Northern, PIA, Port Qasim, HBL, and UBL stayed away from the prestigious National Hockey Championship. Even the National Bank registered their team in the Championship at the eleventh hour. Just four days ahead of the start of the Championship, the NBP had no plans of fielding a team in the event. Sanity then prevailed as at the eleventh hour the administration sanctioned the team’s participation.

Contrary to hollow promises, fake claims, there has been no progress for the revival of departmental teams, especially in hockey and soccer. Poor man sport football is the worst hit game. The departments like SNGPL, SSGC, KPT, National Bank, ZTBL, PTV and Civil Aviation have yet to revive teams. The worst part is that hundreds of players are jobless and are desperately waiting for the revival of departmental sports to get back on the playing fields.

A football player whose only job was to play soccer for his department is financially broke.” I was one of the top soccer players who earned a name at national level through hard work. Once the PTI government banned departmental sports a few years back, I was left jobless. My job was to play football as I have no other expertise. Now I am totally struggling financially. The moment I heard about the revival of departmental sports I was excited to get back on the field. Years have passed since. I am still waiting for a call from my department but there is no news whether the football team will be re-established. No one is pursuing the PM directive as no department has revived its football team,” he said.

Same is the plight of hundreds of other players who are desperately waiting for the revival of departmental sports. The onus of failure rests entirely with the Ministry of Inter-Provincial Coordination (IPC). The Ministry during the last two years has failed to make department executives realise the urgency of matter and the directives they receive from the PM.

The leading departments including forces and Wapda have always maintained their interest in developing sports despite the PTI government’s decision to disband departmental teams. Others including Sui Southern and Northern, the majority of banks including PIA, Habib Bank, and a host of other banks and departments wasted no time stopping sports activities in all major team/individual sports.

Footballers who had been hired by the SNGPL and other departments have been waiting for their salaries for months now. The same is the case in hockey where all these departments did not move an inch since the PM Shehbaz Sharif issued directives in 2022 during his first tenure in office.

“Not a single department which disbanded its hockey team during the PTI government has restored hockey outfits or started hiring any player for their teams,” a Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) official when contacted said. "Even those who were given contracts are no more with these departments. We have requested these departments time and again to send teams to national events but to no avail. Even a few weeks back, we sent letters to departments to send entries for the National Hockey Championship but no reasonable response so far has been received," he added. The toothless IPC has wasted almost two years to execute a departmental sports revival plan. Not an inch of progress has so far been noticed.

SOURCE:https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/1267077-no-progress-in-departmental-sports-revival?s=08
 
Israr Khattak wins Second Karachi Marathon

Israr Khattak from Peshawar achieved a remarkable victory in the second edition of the Karachi Marathon, completing the full marathon in an impressive time of 2 hours, 29 minutes, and 58 seconds.

The outstanding performance earned him the top position in Pakistan’s largest marathon event, which attracted hundreds of both professional and amateur runners.

The event, recognized by World Athletics, was held on a pleasant Sunday morning, drawing participants from various regions of Pakistan and beyond. Runners from countries such as the United States, Poland, Japan, and Germany joined competitors from cities including Islamabad, Karachi, and Quetta.

In the full marathon, Muhammad Riaz from Bahawalpur finished in second place, completing the race in 2 hours, 32 minutes, and 10 seconds. The half marathon concluded with an exhilarating finish, where Muhammad Akhtar from Sahiwal emerged as the winner, finishing in 1 hour, 12 minutes, and 8 seconds. Muhammad Qasim from Sialkot and Muhammad Usman from Attock secured the second and third positions, respectively.

In the women’s half marathon, Mumtaz Naimat from Gilgit triumphed with a time of 1 hour, 43 minutes, and 0 seconds.

Race Director Shoaib Nizami emphasized the importance of the event, noting that it provided local runners with an opportunity to qualify for prestigious international competitions such as the Boston Marathon. He also remarked on the significant increase in female participation, highlighting the event’s growing relevance.

The marathon featured a 42.2-kilometer full marathon, a 21.1-kilometer half marathon, and a 5-kilometer fun race, all set along a picturesque route from Sea View to the Golf Club. Full marathon participants covered a distance of 42.2 kilometers, while half marathon runners completed 21.1 kilometers, with a return loop from the Golf Club.

First-time participants, including Mustansar Bandooqwala, a hiker who transitioned to running, and 66-year-old Mazhar Valjee, who described the event as a source of positivity for Karachi, shared their inspiring experiences. Additionally, 72-year-old Feroz Rizvi, the oldest participant, contributed to the event’s vibrant atmosphere.

 
Chairman PCB Mohsin Naqvi meets former Pakistan Hockey players; Calls for reforms in Hockey

- Shahbaz senior and Khawaja Junaid appreciated Chairman PCB for his stance on ICC Champions Trophy

Lahore, 7 January 2025:

Chairman Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Mohsin Naqvi had a meeting with former national hockey players Shahbaz Ahmed Snr and Khawaja Junaid at the National Cricket Academy, Lahore on Tuesday. The duo commended Chairman Naqvi's principled stance on the ICC Champions Trophy and lauded the swift reforms undertaken to improve Pakistan’s cricket structure. They emphasised the need for a similar pace of reforms to revitalise Pakistan’s hockey system.

The meeting centred on exploring sustainable measures to promote hockey across Pakistan. Chairman PCB Mohsin Naqvi reiterated his unwavering support for the development of the sport, acknowledging hockey’s status as the national game and its illustrious legacy.

“Hockey is Pakistan’s national sport and holds a proud history of global achievements. Restoring its past glory remains a priority, and we will extend our full support to achieve this,” stated Chairman Mohsin Naqvi.

Shahbaz Senior and Khawaja Junaid provided insights from their visits to German and Dutch hockey clubs, sharing best practices for youth development and grassroots initiatives. They also briefed Chairman PCB on the scheduled tour of the German National Junior Hockey Team to Pakistan in March, underscoring the importance of international engagement in fostering the growth of hockey.

PCB remains committed to working collaboratively with stakeholders to ensure the uplift of sports in Pakistan, providing strategic support for the advancement of hockey alongside cricket.
 

Pakistan's Mohammad Asif secures Saarc Snooker Championship​


Pakistan’s veteran cueist Mohammad Asif has won the 3rd Saarc Snooker Championship after outclassing Sri Lanka's Thaha Irshath on Friday.

He defeated Sri Lanka’s Thaha Irshath in the final with a commanding 5-0 victory, without dropping a single frame throughout the match.

The final was held at the Moors Snooker Club in Colombo, where Asif showcased his exceptional skills and cue control.

He dominated throughout the final to win it with frame scores of 99-3, 73-46, 85-38, 109-6, and 74-0.

Asif registered three breaks of 50 or over in the best of 9 final, including a top break of 67 in the opening and closing frames, which sealed his comprehensive win.

The SAARC Snooker Championship title is Asif’s eighth career title, highlighting his status as one of the most successful amateur players in the region.

"Winning this title is a moment of great pride for me and Pakistan," Asif said after the match.

The champion has also received congratulations from President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif as they lauded Asif in separate messages for demonstrating his best game in the entire championship particularly the final.

“Muhammad Asif brought laurels to Pakistan in the game of snooker. I pray for Muhammad Asif’s success in the future as well,” President Zardari said.

Prime Minister Shehbaz also felicitated cueist Asif on winning the third SAARC snooker championship.

“Muhammad Asif won an important snooker championship and brought the country’s name to the limelight in the whole world.The whole nation is proud of you,” the PM said.

He also expressed best wishes for Asif’s future.

Asif’s victory in Colombo also makes him the second Pakistani to win the SAARC Snooker Championship.

The first edition of the event, held in 2019, was won by Pakistan’s Asjad Iqbal.

This latest triumph adds another feather to the cap of the 42-year-old from Faisalabad, who has already cemented his legacy in amateur snooker.

Asif is a three-time world champion, having won the IBSF World Snooker Championship in 2012, 2019, and again in 2024.

 
Pakistan's Asad Ali Memon summits Mount Vinson, highest peak in Antarctica

Pakistani mountaineer Asad Ali Memon has successfully summited Mount Vinson, the highest peak in Antarctica, marking a significant milestone in his quest to complete the Seven Summits challenge.

The 26-year-old confirmed this feat while talking to Geo News from Antarctica, highlighting the physical and mental resilience required to conquer one of the most remote and coldest peaks on Earth.

"From Karachi to Antarctica, the journey ends here," Memon said in his message.

"The past two weeks, battling sub-zero temperatures, relentless winds, and extreme isolation, tested every ounce of my strength. But nothing is impossible when fueled by purpose, discipline, and the will to push beyond limits."


 

Pakistan announce squad for Davis Cup tie against Kazakhstan​

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF) on Tuesday, announced the national squad for the Davis Cup World Group-I Playoff tie against Kazakhstan, scheduled to be played in Nur-Sultan on February 1 and 2.

According to the PTF, three players – Huzaifa Abdul Rehman, Muzammil Murtaza and Ahmad Nael Qureshi – were selected after the trials, conducted at the PTF Tennis Complex here from January 11 to 14.

The trio was selected based on their current PTF rankings and performances at national and international levels.

Meanwhile, Pakistan captain Muhammad Haseeb Aslam, alongside Aqeel Khan, was exempted from the trials and earned direct selection for the Davis Cup World Group-I Playoff tie against Kazakhstan.

Pakistan’s Davis Cup squad:

Aqeel Khan, Muhammad Shoaib, Muzammil Murtaza, Huzaifa Abdul Rehman, Ahmad Nael Qureshi, Muhammad Haseeb Aslam (captain), Muhammad Shahid (physio).

Source: GEO
 
Asif makes snooker history with rare 147 break against Ali Raza

Pakistan's snooker star Mohammad Asif etched his name into the annals of history on Saturday with an extraordinary achievement—recording a rare 147 break during his National Snooker Championship match against Ali Raza.

A 147 break, considered the pinnacle of snooker scoring, involves potting all 15 reds with 15 blacks, followed by potting all six colors, all in a single visit to the table.

At 42 years old, Asif became only the second player in the history of Pakistan’s National Snooker Championship to achieve this feat and the fourth Pakistani overall.

He joins the ranks of notable Pakistani snooker players like Saleh Muhammad, who made a 147 at the 2008 Asian Championship, Muhammad Sajjad, who achieved the milestone during the 2021 National Championship and Ahsan Ramzan, who registered a 147 at the 2022 World U21 Championship.

“This is a special moment for me, and I want to thank everyone who has supported me throughout my career,” Asif said after his remarkable achievement.

Asif emerged victorious in the match with a 4-2 win over Ali Raza, with the following frame scores: 1-0, 54-21, 98(98)-0, 147(147)-0, 17-90(89), and 87-16.

The 147 break, also known as a maximum break, is a rare and prestigious accomplishment in professional snooker.

It demands perfect shot-making, precise tactical skills, and nerves of steel, marking it as the ultimate benchmark of excellence in the sport.

Asif, a three-time IBSF World Snooker Champion (2012, 2019, 2024), has been a stalwart of Pakistani snooker for over two decades.

Born in Faisalabad, he has represented Pakistan in numerous international events, earning widespread recognition for his consistency and composure.

His 2012 triumph made him the second Pakistani to win the IBSF World Championship, his 2019 victory solidified his legacy as one of the country’s finest snooker players, and his 2024 win reaffirmed his dominance as one of the greatest amateur snooker players in the world.


 
The Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) has imposed bans on eight athletes after they tested positive for prohibited substances, while investigations into five additional cases are still underway.

These sanctions follow the results of anti-doping tests conducted in 2024. According to a PSB spokesperson, 140 tests were carried out last year, with 13 athletes returning positive results. The initiative aims to uphold integrity in sports and curb the use of performance-enhancing drugs.

The suspended athletes represent various sports, including five from weightlifting, along with individuals from bodybuilding, cycling, and athletics.

In weightlifting, Furqan Ahmed has received a two-year ban, while Jamil Akhtar and Muhammad Yousaf have been suspended for three years each. Ghulam Hussain Shahid faces a four-year suspension, and Arsalan Rauf has been handed a three-year ban.

Other bans include a three-year suspension for cyclist Natalia Khan and sprinter Anis Khan, while bodybuilder Kashif Shah has been sidelined for four years.

Meanwhile, disciplinary action is still pending against shot-putter Mahnoor Dogar and middle-distance runner Rabeela Farooq, who also tested positive. Additionally, sprinter Naveed Anjum and weightlifters Malik Subhan and Hamad Ali have been issued notices and await further proceedings.
 
Pakistan emerge victorious in International Tent Pegging Championship 2025

Pakistan emerged victorious in the 9-nation tent pegging, securing first place with an impressive 570 points, surpassing all competitors.

Egypt and Saudi Arabia claimed the second and third positions, respectively. Aftab Shabbir from Pakistan was honoured with the prestigious title of Best Rider of the Tournament.

The international competition, held in Lahore, saw teams from Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Qatar, South Africa, the United States, Norway, Kuwait, Oman, and Pakistan competing. For the first time, teams from nine nations participated in a single event in Pakistan.

President of the Equestrian Federation, Sahibzada Sultan, commented on the significance of the event. “The teams that have come to Pakistan will carry a positive message back to their countries,” Sultan said. “The arrival of international players in Pakistan is a major achievement.”

Sultan expressed hope that with the support of the government of Pakistan and national institutions, the sport would continue to grow.

He also noted that the earlier hosting of the World Cup Qualifiers in Pakistan was the result of his continuous hard work.


 
23 Pakistan-origin runners to partake in Tokyo Marathon 2025

A contingent of 23 Pakistani runners, including 11 from cities across the country and 12 overseas, will be participating in Tokyo Marathon 2024 — one of the six well-known races worldwide — on Sunday (tomorrow).

The event will see runners from around the globe compete on a course that weaves through Tokyo’s iconic landmarks, offering a blend of modernity and tradition.

The Tokyo Marathon, established in 2007, has become a hallmark of excellence in the global running community. Known for its meticulous organisation and enthusiastic spectator support, the race starts at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building and passes through notable sites such as the Imperial Palace, Tokyo Tower, and Asakusa before concluding near Tokyo Station.

The race is not just a test of physical endurance but also a cultural experience, with spectators lining the streets to cheer on participants with unmatched enthusiasm. The event’s emphasis on sustainability and community engagement has further cemented its reputation as a world-class marathon.

This year’s Pakistani contingent includes seasoned marathoners and first-time participants, with 19 male and 4 female runners. Among them are Six Star Finishers — runners who have completed all six World Marathon Majors — such as Hamid Butt from Lahore and Faisal Shafi from Karachi.

Faisal Shafi, who is running the Tokyo Marathon for the second time, said, “I am running to raise funds for Special Olympics Pakistan for the Winter Special Olympics. I’m not eying any personal record; I’m running for our special athletes. Tokyo Marathon has always been my favorite, and I’m very impressed by Japanese culture and that’s why I’m running this race.”

Kaukab Sarwar, a Karachi-based runner participating in her fifth major marathon, shared her preparation journey: “My goal is to complete it sub-4. I trained really hard for this during the last 12 weeks, undergoing various running programs to prepare myself. Tokyo is a different kind of experience. The travel was long and has left me a bit tired, but I am still hoping for the best.”

Bilal Ehsan, an Islamabad-based runner, emphasised his focus on personal achievement and cultural engagement. “I am aiming to have a good race and enjoy the culture of Tokyo. I’ve trained for almost 8 to 9 weeks, and my focus is on achieving my personal best,” he said.

The participation of Pakistani runners in the Tokyo Marathon reflects the growing popularity of long-distance running in Pakistan. Running communities in cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad have expanded in recent years, with more individuals taking up the sport for fitness and personal challenge.

The Pakistani contingent includes runners based in countries such as the United States, Norway, the United Kingdom, and the United Arab Emirates, highlighting the global reach of the diaspora. Among the female participants is Khoula Ahmed, a Norwegian-Pakistani runner, and Maheen Sheikh, based in the UK.



 
Shehzad Butt reaches knockout stage at World Snooker Disability Championship

Pakistani cueist Shehzad Butt remains unbeaten in all round-robin matches at the World Snooker Disability Championship in Thailand, advancing to the knockout stage starting Sunday.

The tournament, featuring 19 countries from five continents, has seen intense competition.

Shehzad Butt defeated cueists from England, India, and Australia in his round-robin matches. In his first match, he overcame England’s five-time world champion, Dave Bolton, with a score of 3-2 in frames.

In his second match, he achieved a 3-0 victory over Indian cueist Kadhari Murlera. In the third match, Shehzad clinched another 3-0 win against Australian female cueist Joji Vekipa.

The Pakistani special cueist has also set tournament records with his high breaks. Shehzad scored an 86 in one break and a 71 in another. He hails from Lahore, Pakistan, and has been a standout performer in the competition.


 
Pakistani tennis player sets world record

Pakistan’s senior tennis player, Talha Waheed, has made history by securing a place in the Guinness World Records.

According to Guinness World Records, Waheed set a new global benchmark by executing 59 successful tennis serves in one minute, surpassing the previous record of 42 serves set by American player John Perry in 2019.

This achievement makes him the first Pakistani to hold this world record.

Waheed has also competed internationally in ITF tournaments and achieved a career-high ranking of 144 in the 40+ doubles category.

Over the years, he has won multiple national titles in the 35+, 40+, and 45+ doubles categories, proudly representing Pakistan on the global stage.

Inspired by John Perry’s 2019 record, Waheed committed himself to breaking the milestone.

He underwent three months of rigorous training, refining every technical aspect of his game.

On November 8, 2024, in Lahore, he officially attempted the record under Guinness World Records’ guidelines.

His dedication paid off when, on March 10, 2025, Guinness officially recognized his achievement, declaring him a world record holder.

Pakistani tennis officials have lauded Waheed’s accomplishment, calling it a significant milestone for the sport in the country.

President of the Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF) Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi, Secretary General Col Ziauddin Tufail, and fellow players congratulated him on this historic feat.


 
Muneeb, Saboor and Manahil strike gold at Special Olympics

Pakistan’s special athletes added to their medal tally on Saturday during the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin with multiple athletes winning medals in various events.

Muneeb Ur Rehman won his second gold medal of the Games in the men’s 100-metre cross-country skiing event, while Abdul Saboor and Manahil won gold medals in the men’s and women’s 400-meter snowshoeing races, respectively.

Pakistan’s special athletes have won a total of 11 medals, including, six gold, three silver and two bronze medals, thanks to their impressive performance at the Games.

Muneeb led the charge as he cruised to victory ahead of Mongolia’s Amarjargal while China’s Mingjun Hong took the bronze medal.

Muneeb had earlier won the gold medal in the men’s 50-metre cross-country skiing event.

In the men’s 400-meter snowshoeing race, Saboor clinched the gold medal, outpacing Romania’s Lonut Petrisor, second, and Macau’s Chi Fong, who took third place.

Pakistan’s women athletes also made their mark, with Manahil winning the gold medal in the women’s 400-meter snowshoeing race. Latvia’s Adriana Maleca finished second, while Chinese Taipei’s Yi Jhen Chen bagged the bronze medal, finishing third.

Chairperson of Special Olympics Pakistan, Ronak Lakhani, congratulated the athletes, coaches, and support staff on their remarkable achievement.

“I am incredibly proud of our athletes, who have shown remarkable perseverance and national spirit despite the freezing weather in Turin,” she said.

DAWN NEWS
 
Pakistan wins bronze at Int’l Tennis Federation Masters 45+ World Championship

Pakistan won the bronze medal at the International Tennis Federation Masters 45+ World Championship after defeating Germany 2-1 on Sunday, according to a statement by the Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF).

A total of 21 nations participated in the men’s team event that was held in Manavgat, Turkiye in the 45+ age category known as the Dubler Cup.

Pakistan had dominated the group stage with emphatic 3-0 victories over Romania and the host nation, according to the PTF.

“Pakistan’s tennis team made history by securing a bronze medal at the ITF Masters 45+ World Championship in Manavgat, Turkey.

“Competing for the first time in this prestigious event, the team, led by captain Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi and featuring Aqeel Khan and Shehryar Salamat, delivered an outstanding performance against some of the world’s top tennis nations.” the statement said.

In the quarterfinals, the team overcame Czech Republic 2-1 to secure a place in the final four, the statement added.

“In a hard-fought semifinal battle against France, Pakistan fell just short, losing 2-1, despite an epic singles victory by Aqeel Khan. The doubles match proved decisive, where France edged out Pakistan,” it continued.

Team Pakistan then rebounded in the third-place match, defeating Germany 2-1 to clinch the bronze medal. In this crucial encounter, Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi had retired in his singles match whereas, Aqeel Khan had secured a commanding singles win, the statement continued.

Consequently, Qureshi and Khan teamed up to win the decisive doubles match against Germany. Pakistan players will now compete in individual events in the second week of the championship, the statement concluded.

Earlier in the week, Pakistan’s senior tennis player Talha Waheed aced his way to a world record, smashing the mark for most tennis serves in a minute, Guinness World Records had said.

Waheed destroyed American John Perry’s 2019 record of 42 by delivering 59 successful serves in a November attempt that was ratified this week.

Earlier this month, Pakistan defeated Iran 2-1 to secure the bronze medal at the BNP Paribas World Team Cup Wheelchair Tennis Asian Qualification Event.

The doubles decider saw Asif and Fida edge past the Iranian pair 6-4, 6-4 to clinch the medal.

Pakistan win the Davis Cup Juniors 2025

Pakistan won the Davis Cup Juniors 2025 tournament after defeating Indonesia 2-1 in the final, according to a statement by the PTF on Saturday.

“With this historic win, Pakistan remained unbeaten throughout the championship, showcasing exceptional talent, determination, and teamwork,” the statement said.

After this victory, Pakistan have now qualified for the ITF Asia/Oceania Davis Cup Juniors Qualifying Event, scheduled to be held in Kazakhstan from May 19-24, the PTF said.

This competition will feature the top 16 teams from Asia and Oceania, competing for a place in the World Group, it added.

Pakistan team captain Shahzad Khan was quoted as having said, “I am extremely happy with the way the boys played from start to finish. Their dedication and hard work paid off, and I am incredibly proud of all the players.”

PTF President Aisamul Haq Qureshi also congratulated the team on their historic achievement, calling it a moment of immense pride for Pakistan, the statement added.

He commended the players, Mikaeel Ali Baig, Abubakar Talha, and Hamza Roman as well as Captain Shahzad Khan for their dedication and commitment, the statement continued.

Qureshi highlighted the remarkable progress made in international competitions, noting that while the team finished 16th out of 16 in 2023, and 5th out of 16 in 2024, it had won the championship this year indicating that the country’s tennis was on the right path.

DAWN NEWS
 

Another gold medal for Pakistan as Aisam wins ITF Masters mixed doubles title​

LAHORE - Pakistan’s tennis ace Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi, alongside his French partner Magalie Girard, has once again made the nation proud by securing a gold medal in the mixed doubles (40+) category at the prestigious ITF Masters World Championship.

In a gripping final, the Pakistan-French duo staged an incredible comeback to defeat Germany’s Katharina Rath and Andreas Thivessen in straight sets, 7-5, 6-3. The match began with a challenging start for Aisam and Girard, as they trailed 2-5 in the first set. However, demonstrating remarkable resilience and strategic brilliance, they turned the tide in their favor, winning five consecutive games to claim the set 7-5. The second set was a more dominant display from Aisam and his partner, as they overpowered their German opponents with a 6-3 victory to seal the championship title.

Following his remarkable win, an elated Aisam expressed his joy and gratitude. “I am overjoyed and humbled by this triumph! I thank Allah for granting me the strength and resilience to secure another gold medal for Pakistan. This victory is dedicated to my beloved nation – a special gift on the eve of Pakistan Day (23rdMarch). Seeing the Pakistan flag flying high on the international stage fills my heart with immense pride.”

Aisam-ul-Haq, a veteran of Pakistan tennis, continues to be a beacon of inspiration for aspiring athletes. With a career spanning over two decades, he has brought numerous laurels to the country and remains committed to elevating Pakistan’s status in international tennis. His latest victory at the ITF Masters World Championship not only adds another feather to his illustrious cap but also reinforces Pakistan’s presence in global tennis.

Source: THE NATION
 
Pakistan’s rising squash star Noor Zaman has etched his name into history by winning the 2025 U-23 World Squash Championship, defeating Egypt's Kareem El Torkey in a thrilling 3-2 comeback victory.

The final, held at the prestigious DHA Creek Club in Karachi, was a display of resilience, determination, and skill from the 21-year-old from Peshawar, who overcame a challenging start to secure the coveted title.

The match was an intense battle, with Zaman initially struggling as El Torkey took an early 2-1 lead. The Egyptian displayed his aggressive playing style, clinching the second and third games 9-11 and 4-11, respectively. However, Zaman, known for his composure under pressure, refused to back down. The Pakistani ace regained control in the fourth game, narrowly winning 11-9, and then delivered a dominant 11-7 victory in the deciding fifth game.

Zaman's win was a testament to his mental toughness and adaptability. Despite being on the back foot, he exhibited incredible resilience to bounce back, ultimately clinching the title in front of a passionate home crowd. The final scoreline of 11-6, 9-11, 4-11, 11-9, and 11-7 was a reflection of the intense contest, which kept the audience on the edge of their seats.

The tournament has been a remarkable journey for Zaman, who has impressed with his physical fitness, technical prowess, and ability to perform under pressure. Throughout the week, he has been in top form, powering through his earlier matches with relative ease. Zaman’s campaign in the tournament saw him defeat top players, including France’s Melvil Scianimanico, Poland’s Jakub Pytlowany, and Kuwait’s Hussain Alzaatari, to reach the final.

El Torkey, for his part, also put up a strong fight. The Egyptian had earlier upset top seed Ibrahim Elkabbani in the semi-final, which further heightened expectations for a thrilling final showdown. However, despite El Torkey's early dominance, Zaman’s ability to adjust his game and come through in the clutch moments proved decisive.

Zaman’s victory marks a historic moment for Pakistan's squash legacy, as he becomes the first Pakistani to win the U-23 World Squash Championship. This achievement not only cements his place as one of the brightest young talents in the sport but also brings a sense of pride to Pakistan, where squash has long been a source of national pride.

Speaking after the match, Zaman dedicated his victory to the people of Pakistan, especially to the passionate fans who supported him throughout the tournament. "This win is for Pakistan. The support I have received has been overwhelming, and it pushed me to give my best on the court. I’m proud to carry forward the rich legacy of squash in Pakistan," Zaman said.

The win is also a symbolic reminder of Pakistan’s deep-rooted history in squash, once dominated by legends such as Jahangir Khan and Jansher Khan. Noor Zaman’s victory signals the resurgence of Pakistan’s squash dominance, offering hope for a new generation of players to follow in his footsteps.

As Zaman holds the U-23 World Squash Championship trophy aloft, his victory not only secures his place in history but also inspires a new wave of squash players in Pakistan, reaffirming the nation's status as a powerhouse in the sport.

Final Score: Noor Zaman (Pakistan) 11-6, 9-11, 4-11, 11-9, 11-7 Kareem El Torkey (Egypt)

Noor Zaman’s triumph is expected to be celebrated as one of the standout sporting achievements in Pakistan this year, and his future in the sport looks incredibly promising.

Source: Samaa News
 
Pakistan’s rising squash star Noor Zaman has etched his name into history by winning the 2025 U-23 World Squash Championship, defeating Egypt's Kareem El Torkey in a thrilling 3-2 comeback victory.

The final, held at the prestigious DHA Creek Club in Karachi, was a display of resilience, determination, and skill from the 21-year-old from Peshawar, who overcame a challenging start to secure the coveted title.

The match was an intense battle, with Zaman initially struggling as El Torkey took an early 2-1 lead. The Egyptian displayed his aggressive playing style, clinching the second and third games 9-11 and 4-11, respectively. However, Zaman, known for his composure under pressure, refused to back down. The Pakistani ace regained control in the fourth game, narrowly winning 11-9, and then delivered a dominant 11-7 victory in the deciding fifth game.

Zaman's win was a testament to his mental toughness and adaptability. Despite being on the back foot, he exhibited incredible resilience to bounce back, ultimately clinching the title in front of a passionate home crowd. The final scoreline of 11-6, 9-11, 4-11, 11-9, and 11-7 was a reflection of the intense contest, which kept the audience on the edge of their seats.

The tournament has been a remarkable journey for Zaman, who has impressed with his physical fitness, technical prowess, and ability to perform under pressure. Throughout the week, he has been in top form, powering through his earlier matches with relative ease. Zaman’s campaign in the tournament saw him defeat top players, including France’s Melvil Scianimanico, Poland’s Jakub Pytlowany, and Kuwait’s Hussain Alzaatari, to reach the final.

El Torkey, for his part, also put up a strong fight. The Egyptian had earlier upset top seed Ibrahim Elkabbani in the semi-final, which further heightened expectations for a thrilling final showdown. However, despite El Torkey's early dominance, Zaman’s ability to adjust his game and come through in the clutch moments proved decisive.

Zaman’s victory marks a historic moment for Pakistan's squash legacy, as he becomes the first Pakistani to win the U-23 World Squash Championship. This achievement not only cements his place as one of the brightest young talents in the sport but also brings a sense of pride to Pakistan, where squash has long been a source of national pride.

Speaking after the match, Zaman dedicated his victory to the people of Pakistan, especially to the passionate fans who supported him throughout the tournament. "This win is for Pakistan. The support I have received has been overwhelming, and it pushed me to give my best on the court. I’m proud to carry forward the rich legacy of squash in Pakistan," Zaman said.

The win is also a symbolic reminder of Pakistan’s deep-rooted history in squash, once dominated by legends such as Jahangir Khan and Jansher Khan. Noor Zaman’s victory signals the resurgence of Pakistan’s squash dominance, offering hope for a new generation of players to follow in his footsteps.

As Zaman holds the U-23 World Squash Championship trophy aloft, his victory not only secures his place in history but also inspires a new wave of squash players in Pakistan, reaffirming the nation's status as a powerhouse in the sport.

Final Score: Noor Zaman (Pakistan) 11-6, 9-11, 4-11, 11-9, 11-7 Kareem El Torkey (Egypt)

Noor Zaman’s triumph is expected to be celebrated as one of the standout sporting achievements in Pakistan this year, and his future in the sport looks incredibly promising.

Source: Samaa News

Trying to steal credit as usual, is he chairman Pakistan Squash too now?:

====

Well done, Noor Zaman — the nation is proud of you. Mohsin Naqvi

Lahore – April 10, 2025: Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board, Mohsin Naqvi congratulated Noor Zaman on winning the World Under-23 Squash Championship. Chairman PCB Mohsin Naqvi said that Noor Zaman has brought pride to Pakistan through his hard work and his victory is a victory for the entire nation. He also extended heartfelt congratulations to Noor Zaman’s coaches and parents. Talented young individuals like Noor Zaman are a valuable asset to Pakistan.
 
Noor Zaman of Pakistan won the Under-23 World Squash Championship, defeating Egypt’s Karim El Turky 3-2 in a hard-fought final at Karachi’s DA Creek Club.

Pakistan’s Noor Zaman secured the Under-23 World Squash Championship title after a 3-2 victory over Egypt’s Karim El Turky in the men's final, held at the DA Creek Club in Karachi.

Zaman, who credited his success to hard work and divine favour, brought home the gold medal following a tense and closely contested match.

@BouncerGuy @The Bald Eagle @Asad T (sorry if already posted)

Full article: https://tribune.com.pk/story/253925...3-world-squash-championship-at-dha-creek-club
 
Pakistan dominates squash courts with 4 gold, 1 silver at Australian Junior Open

The Pakistan flag was flying high at the Melbourne squash courts as the nation’s young stars bagged four gold medals and one silver at the Australian Junior Open on Thursday.

Mehwish Ali defended her Girls U-17 title after defeating Eden-Alma Poulava 11-5, 11-5, 11-7 in today’s final. The top seed remained undefeated throughout the tournament and didn’t cede a single set to her opponents.

Compatriot Azan Ali Khan took the Boys U-17 title in similar fashion with a dominating 11-6, 11-4, 11-9 win over local favourite Henry Kross.

Khan is ranked Number 2 in Pakistan in the Boys U-17 category as of March.

Top seed Mahnoor Ali snagged the Girls U-13 title when she thrashed Riyo Kawabata 11-2, 11-5, 11-6 in the final. The 12-year-old, who is currently top ranked in Pakistan, followed in her older sister’s footsteps in remaining undefeated throughout the tournament with three straight wins in each match.

Pakistan’s youngest gold medal came from Ahmad Ali Naz when he triumphed over local Freddie Goldsmith 3-1 in the Boys U-11 final. Naz is the number 1 ranked Pakistani in his age group, took the first set 11-5 before Goldsmith took the second set 11-2.

The second seed had his eye on the prize and blasted Goldsmith in the next two sets 11-6, 11-6 to take home the title.

The Ali sisters come as a trio, and Sehrish put up a solid fight in her final but it was ultimately Japan’s Emily Senior who triumphed 3-2 in the Girls U15 final.

Senior dominated in the first set with a 15-13 win over Sehrish, who then thrashed the Japanese 11-5 in the second game.

Top seed Senior once again took the score into overdrive as she won the third game 12-10. Sehrish, seeded second, took the fourth game 11-6. Senior took home the title with a resounding 11-4 win over the Pakistani, who came away from the thrilling match with a silver medal.

Earlier this month, Noor Zaman was crowned men’s champion at the U23 World Squash Championship in Karachi 3-2 after a stellar comeback against Egypt’s Karim El Torkey.

Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1904827/p...ith-4-gold-1-silver-at-australian-junior-open
 
Historic win: Pakistani runners finish Boston marathon in style, set unique record
Two Pakistani runners, Faisal Shafi and Danish Elahi, made history at the world’s oldest Boston Marathon by setting a unique world record: completing the race in the fastest time while wearing traditional shalwar kameez.

The athletes, both from Karachi, finished the marathon in three hours and 26 minutes, marking the first time any runner has completed the 26.2-mile race in under four hours while wearing the loose-fitting national attire of Pakistan.

Starting and finishing the race together, Shafi and Elahi said their achievement was a tribute to their country.


“This record is dedicated to all of Pakistan,” Elahi told Geo News in an exclusive interview. “Setting a record in a historic race like Boston is truly memorable.”

Shafi added, “We did this to highlight Pakistan’s positive image, and we will celebrate this victory back home.”

The Boston Marathon, first held in 1897, is one of the most prestigious long-distance running events globally. The Pakistani duo’s distinctive attire and synchronised finish drew attention, showcasing cultural pride alongside athletic endurance.

No official category exists for traditional clothing in the world's major marathons however the Guinness World Record recognises this as a world record.

The duo's feat has been widely recognised as unprecedented. Fellow runners applauded their performance, which blended sportsmanship with national identity.

Upon their return to Pakistan, the runners plan to hold celebrations to share their milestone with supporters.

Source: https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1...sh-boston-marathon-in-style-set-unique-record
 
Amin Mukaty, Sara Lodhi emerge as Pakistan’s fastest at 129th Boston Marathon

Pakistan's running community made a strong showing at the 129th Boston Marathon on Monday, with Amin Mukaty and Sara Lodhi emerging as the fastest male and female finishers from Pakistan in the prestigious race.

Mukaty, a 23-year-old Karachi-based runner who time qualified for the Boston Marathon, clocked an impressive 2:48:47 on the challenging Boston course, known for its punishing Heartbreak Hill segment. "Heartbreak Hill couldn't break my heart," posted Mukaty on his Instagram account.

"The Boston Marathon tested my limits but I rose to the challenge. Proud to represent Pakistan on world stage," he added.

Close behind Amin was another Karachiite Abdul Rehman, who crossed the finish line in 2:51:13. "It was challenging with lots of hills but I enjoyed it," Rehman told Geo News. "I think it was my best run, better than how I ran in Berlin."

The Karachi-based duo was followed by Nizar Nayani, Omer Malik and Sadiq Shah - who ran his 2nd Boston Marathon.

The women's contingent was led by 39-year-old Sara Lodhi, who finished in 3:24:46 in what marked her ninth career marathon and fifth World Marathon Major. The UAE-based mother of three gave an emotional account of her journey. "As a mother of three girls, it's really important to me to model that women can achieve anything they set their mind to," Lodhi said. "They see the discipline - waking up at 3am to train before they're ready for school."

Lodhi added that this is the first generation of Pakistani women running marathons and she's grateful to be part of this movement, "Qualifying and performing well here has been a humbling journey, Alhamdulillah."

Meanwhile, six Pakistani runners reached the pinnacle of marathon achievement by becoming Six-Star Finishers, having completed all Abbott World Marathon Majors. Those who earned six-star finishers' medals at Boston include Danish Elahi, Adnan Gandhi, Hira Diwan, Yusra Bokhari, Jamal Khan, and Nizar Nayani.

Elahi, who earned his sixth star in Boston, reflected on the broader meaning of his accomplishment. "It means the world to me, it's not just an achievement for me personally but it's a tribute to my family especially my parents, wife & kids' support through this journey," Elahi said.

"Its representation for Pakistan on a global platform and to our local running community to inspire the younger generation."

USA-based Dr Salman Khan (3:24:45), already a six-star finisher, completed the Boston Marathon for the 5th time.

“Seeing all the Pakistani runners in the Boston Marathon is a dream come true for me. With each and every year more and more Pakistanis are representing their country at international venues. This is just wonderful," said Dr Salman, who is also playing an important role in bringing all Pakistani-origin runners from around the world under one platform.

Additionally, Bokhari, another six-star finisher, said: "I started running several years ago. After my sister and I ran our first marathon in Arizona - I set a goal to do the six majors by 2023. Covid had other plans. It was a way to stay healthy and travel the world."

"It’s been a tremendous journey. I’m excited about completing the six stars - but I’m even more proud of the growing Pakistani and Muslim running communities," she added.

The Pakistani contingent showed remarkable depth with thirteen runners achieving sub-four-hour finishes:

1. Amin Mukaty - 2:48:47

2. Abdul Rehman - 2:51:13

3. Nizar Nayani - 3:01:46

4. Omer Malik - 3:05:40

5. Sadiq Shah - 3:12:17

6. Ayaz Abdulla - 3:15:06

7. Salman Ilyas - 3:19:14

8. Dr. Salman Khan - 3:24:45

9. Sara Lodhi - 3:24:46

10. Danish Elahi - 3:26:53

11. Faisal Shafi - 3:26:55

12. Aamer Butt - 3:39:56

13. Jamal Khan - 3:57:56

Other finishers included Hira Diwan, Adnan Gandhi, Qamar Zia, Yusra Bokhari, and Dr. Ravia Bokhari.

The Boston Marathon, first run in 1897, remains one of the world's most prestigious marathons, with this year's event featuring around 30,000 participants from around the globe. Pakistan's strong showing demonstrates the country's growing presence in international marathon running.

Source: https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1...as-pakistans-fastest-at-129th-boston-marathon
 
Arif vows accountability as POA president, eyes revival of sports in Pakistan
Newly elected Pakistan Olympic Association (POA) president Arif Saeed pledged on Tuesday to take full responsibility for the success or failure of Pakistani athletes in international competitions, emphasizing that accountability is critical to progress.

“In the past, controversies arose over athletes’ performances, with neither the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) nor the POA owning responsibility. Instead shifting blame to national sports federations,” Arif, who was addressing his first press conference since assuming office in January, stated.

“As POA president, I accept all responsibility. If we fail to collaborate effectively with the government or federations, the POA will own that failure. Without accountability, we cannot chart the right path forward.”

Arif, hailing from a family with a storied legacy in Pakistani sports, acknowledged strained relations between the POA, PSB and national federations over the past two decades but struck an optimistic tone.

“Discussions with the Inter-Provincial Ministry and PSB are progressing positively. The government recognises sports’ role in youth development and we are sharing a blueprint to elevate standards,” he revealed, adding that he has held two meetings with Federal Sports Minister Rana Sanaullah and the newly appointed sports secretary, with outcomes to be announced soon.

Highlighting the 2025 South Asian Games, which Pakistan will host after a 20-year gap, Arif stressed the need for synergy among stakeholders.

“The technical book for the event, prepared by national federations, is ready. A united effort will ensure these games are memorable for all participants.”

Arif also expressed disappointment over the last-minute postponement of the National Games, originally scheduled to begin in Karachi on May 1 due to heatwave risks.

“The delay caused financial losses to provinces that had set up training camps. A few athletes in Punjab even faced heat-related issues during training,” Arif revealed, hoping Sindh would successfully host the rescheduled event in late 2025.

Rejecting suggestions to adopt a bidding process for future National Games hosts, he emphasised the event’s historic significance, inaugurated by Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah in 1948.

“Provinces should view hosting as an honour.“While welcoming corporate interest in sports sponsorship, he urged federations to first develop clear “pathway programs,” praising the Pakistan Squash and Volleyball Federations for their structured approaches.

Recently the national squash and volleyball players were triumphant in international competitions.

Arif also outlined plans to revitalise grassroots sports, including the inaugural POA Youth Games in Lahore this September for athletes aged 14–17.

Top performers will represent Pakistan at the Asian Youth Games in Bahrain in October this year and the 2026 Youth Olympics in Senegal.

“These platforms will identify and nurture talent for Asian and Olympic glory,” he said, noting the POA’s focus on upgrading coaching, infrastructure and facilities.

Arif also hailed cricket’s inclusion in the 2028 Olympics as a golden opportunity for Pakistan to medal in the sport.

“Sportsmanship teaches us to embrace defeat and celebrate others’ victories. We need new heroes like Arshad Nadeem to inspire youth — this is a collective mission,” Arif concluded.

Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1906014/a...-president-eyes-revival-of-sports-in-pakistan
 
Pakistani Boxing Star Usman Wazeer Knocks Out India’s Eswaran in First Round
Pakistani boxing sensation Usman Wazeer floored India’s S Eswaran in a thunderous first-round knockout during their much-hyped international ranking clash in Bangkok — stretching his flawless record to an awe-inspiring 16-0.

Known in the ring as the “Asian Boy”, Wazeer wasted no time turning the World Siam Stadium into his personal showcase. The pride of Gilgit-Baltistan delivered a punishing performance, sending Eswaran to the canvas twice within just 1 minute and 41 seconds, prompting the referee to halt the fight and hand Wazeer a technical knockout victory.

The lightning-fast win not only marked his 16th consecutive professional triumph but also further cemented his growing stature in the international boxing scene.

True to his patriotic spirit, Wazeer had vowed to dedicate the victory to Pakistan, and before stepping into the ring, he called on the nation to back him with their prayers.

“As always, this win is for Pakistan. I ask my people to keep me in their prayers,” he shared ahead of the bout.

The night featured a total of 15 fights, with Wazeer’s clash slated as the 13th — though it kicked off slightly ahead of schedule due to earlier matches wrapping up quickly.

Amid a night packed with international boxing drama, it was Wazeer’s explosive performance that stole the spotlight and echoed loudest in the heart of Bangkok.

Usman Wazeer, a powerhouse in the ring and the proud holder of titles like the WBO Youth World Champion, WBC Middle East Champion, and WBA Asian Champion, continues to dazzle the boxing world with an unblemished 16-0 record. His relentless consistency and thunderous knockout power have carved his name among the sport’s most promising rising stars.

This isn’t his first time overpowering an Indian rival on Thai soil either. In September 2024, Usman made headlines by obliterating Tehlak Selvam in a mere 65 seconds, reinforcing his image as a relentless force inside the ropes.

With 11 of his 16 victories coming by knockout, Usman’s dominance isn’t just in the numbers — it’s in the way he finishes fights with decisive, electrifying power.

Source: https://wenewsenglish.pk/pakistani-...eer-knocks-out-indias-eswaran-in-first-round/
 
India withdraw from Central Asian volleyball event in Pakistan
The Indian volleyball team have withdrawn from the upcoming Central Asian Volleyball Championship, just weeks after confirming participation, in response to rising political tensions with following an attack in Indian-Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).

The Volleyball Federation of India (VFI) had initially submitted entries for a 30-member contingent — comprising 22 players and eight support staff — to the Pakistan Volleyball Federation (PVF), organisers of the regional tournament.

However, India’s Union Sports Ministry advised the federation to pull out in protest of attack in Pahalgam, IIOJK, which left 26 people dead.


The regional championship, scheduled from May 28 to June 4 at the Liaquat Gymnasium in Islamabad, is set to host national teams from Iran, Pakistan, and other Central Asian countries.

Pakistan had successfully hosted the event in 2024, emerging as champions over Turkmenistan.

While India’s withdrawal affects the original lineup, officials noted the team’s middling performance in past continental events — 11th place in the 2023 Asian men’s tournament and 7th for the women — minimising the competitive impact.

Tournament organisers have confirmed that four nations will still compete as planned.

Earlier, Pakistan expelled 23 Indian nationals working for a Pakistan Super League broadcast partner in response to rising diplomatic tensions following the recent Pahalgam incident in IIOJK.

The Indian staff were part of a technical team contracted by a broadcast company to cover the 10th edition of the HBL PSL, which began on April 11 and is scheduled to run until May 18.

Source: https://tribune.com.pk/story/2542551/india-withdraw-from-central-asian-volleyball-event-in-pakistan
 
Pakistani runners impress during London Marathon 2025
Pakistan's runners made their mark at the London Marathon 2025, with Furqan Masood of Islamabad leading a spirited group of more than 40 Pakistani athletes and diaspora members who took on one of the world’s most iconic races.

Masood completed the marathon in an impressive 3 hours, 10 minutes, and 7 seconds, showcasing resilience and strong pacing in a race that drew over 56,000 participants.

Starting with a fast 20:44 for the first 5K and hitting the 10K mark at 42:09, he battled rising temperatures and fatigue in the latter half but dug deep to cross the finish line, earning 4,460th place overall.

"Crossing the finish line at the London Marathon was a deeply humbling experience," Masood said after the race.

"We’re not professional athletes; we want to inspire people in Pakistan to embrace running as a passion and a healthier lifestyle."

Close behind Masood was USA-based Salman Ilyas, finishing in 3:18:33, with Norway’s Muhammad Fasih Saleh (3:21:54) and Hamza Saleem (3:23:10) also delivering strong performances. Shah Syed was just two seconds behind Saleem, clocking 3:23:12.

Among the women, Norway-based Amy Mir stood out by finishing her first-ever marathon in 3:52:00, despite limited training. "I hadn’t trained beyond 17K, but the energy of the crowd carried me through," she said.

Veteran runner Hamid Butt from Lahore made history by becoming the first Pakistani to complete the Abbott World Marathon Majors twice, earning his second Six Star Medal with a time of 3:41:45.

Meanwhile, at the Manchester Marathon, UAE-based Azmat Khan led the Pakistani contingent with a 3:15:48 finish, while Karachi’s Danish Raza and his son Abrar Ahmed completed the race together in 4:55. British Pakistani doctor Ahmed Zubair also finished Manchester’s course in 6:37:52.

In the elite London races, Kenya’s Sabastian Sawe won the men's division in a rapid 2:02:27, while Ethiopia’s Tigst Assefa dominated the women’s race with a winning time of 2:15:50.

The growing presence of Pakistani runners on global marathon stages signals a rising passion for endurance sports within the community — blending personal achievement with national pride.

Source: https://tribune.com.pk/story/2542749/pakistani-runners-impress-during-london-marathon-2025
 

CAVA relocates Volleyball championship amid Pak-Ind tension​


The Central Asia Volleyball Association (CAVA) has relocated its Men’s Nations League championship from Pakistan to Uzbekistan after India cited security concerns and withdrew from the event.

The decision was finalised during CAVA’s Annual General Meeting held in Nepal on April 25, following the April 22 incident in Pahalgam which raised regional safety concerns.

Originally set to take place in Islamabad, the tournament was poised to be a major moment for Pakistan’s volleyball development.

However, with India’s government revoking its No Objection Certificate (NOC) for participation, and other member nations expressing similar reservations, CAVA decided to shift the tournament to ensure smooth conduct.



A CAVA official confirmed that the dates— May 29 to June 4 2025—will remain unchanged, with Tashkent, Uzbekistan now likely to host all matches.

Following the venue change, India has confirmed its participation.

While Pakistan retains its place in the competition alongside Iran, India, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, and Tajikistan, the move is a blow to its ambitions of becoming a reliable host for international volleyball events.

Earlier, India has withdrawn from the upcoming Central Asian Volleyball Championship in Islamabad, citing political tensions following the April 22 attack in Pahalgam, IIOJK, which killed 26 people.

The Volleyball Federation of India had earlier confirmed a 30-member squad, but the Union Sports Ministry advised a pullout.

Despite India’s exit, the May 29–June 4 tournament will proceed with four teams, including Pakistan and Iran.

Organisers say India’s absence won’t significantly affect competition, noting the team’s modest past performances.

Source: https://tribune.com.pk/story/2543746/cava-relocates-volleyball-championship-amid-pak-ind-tension
 
Pakistani boxer Shahir Afridi knocks out unbeaten Indian boxer in Thailand
Pakistani boxer Shahir Afridi triumphed over his Indian rival, Tarjot Singh Bawa, in a high-stakes match held in Thailand.

The middleweight clash, part of a much-anticipated Pakistan-India boxing showdown, saw Afridi overpower Bawa with a technical knockout in the fourth round. The referee was forced to stop the bout after assessing the Indian boxer’s deteriorating condition following a punishing third round.

Shahir Afridi, a commando with the Sindh Police, now boasts 16 wins out of 18 professional fights, with one draw and one loss. His victory over Bawa is particularly notable as the Indian fighter had been unbeaten in his professional career until this match.

Following his win, Afridi has broken into the list of the world’s top 50 boxers in his category — a significant milestone for the Pakistani athlete.

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah congratulated Afridi on the victory and announced rewards from the provincial government.

“Sindh Police is proud of Shahir Afridi. He has raised the flag of Sindh and Pakistan high by knocking out the Indian boxer,” the chief minister said in a statement.

Source: Tribune.com.pk
 

Sajid Sadpara climbs world’s 7th highest peak without oxygen​


Pakistani climber Sajid Ali Sadpara has successfully scaled Dhaulagiri, the world’s seventh-highest mountain at 8,167 metres, without the use of supplemental oxygen.

Sajid Sadpara achieved the feat with the support of Seven Summit Treks Nepal and Sabroso Pakistan, while technical climbing equipment was provided by Kailas.

Dhaulagiri, located in north-central Nepal, is one of the most challenging 8,000-metre peaks in the world due to its steep terrain and unpredictable weather.

Sajid Sadpara has previously summited multiple 8,000m peaks, often climbing without oxygen — a testament to his high-altitude endurance and technical skill.

His achievement was widely celebrated in Pakistan’s mountaineering circles and by international climbing organisations.

Sadpara is the son of the late climber Muhammad Ali Sadpara. He died during a winter ascent of K2 in 2021.

Sajid Sadpara said he is now working to fulfil his father’s dream of conquering all 14 of the world’s highest mountains without the aid of supplemental oxygen.

He has already climbed K2 twice — once without oxygen — and continues to be involved in high-altitude rescue missions, including on K2.

Source: https://tribune.com.pk/story/2545232/sajid-sadpara-climbs-worlds-7th-highest-peak-without-oxygen
 
Pakistan beat Saudi Arabia to reach Asian Beach Handball Championship semi-finals

Pakistan qualified for the 10th Asian Beach Handball Championship semi-final by securing a hard-fought victory over Saudi Arabia in the quarter-final here at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex on Monday.

The green shirts started the knockout match on a high as they secured the first set comfortably with the score of 17-4.

Saudi Arabia delivered an equally impressive performance in the second set, winning it 14-6 to force the match to the penalty shootouts.

Pakistan held their nerves in the shootout and edged past Saudi Arabia by 8-4 to advance into the Final Four.

The victory marked Pakistan’s third in the five matches during the event, as they had previously defeated Philippines and arch-rivals India in the league stage.

In the blockbuster clash on May 9, Pakistan completely outplayed India, winning both sets with commanding scores of 36-7 and 34-6.


 
Pakistan Football Federation elections delayed by a week

The long-awaited elections of the Pakistan Football Federation have been delayed by a week and will now be held on May 27, the PFF Normalisation Committee announced in the early hours of Thursday morning.

Initially scheduled to be held on May 20 in Lahore, the NC said the elections were delayed due to the recent cross-border skirmishes between Pakistan and India.


“We wish to inform you that due to ongoing tensions between Pakistan and India the scheduling of the FIFA and Asian Football Confederation delegations have been impacted,” it said in a statement.

“These unforeseen and unfortunate circumstances have also caused logistical and administrative challenges that have affected the organisation and coordination of the PFF Extraordinary Congress scheduled for 20 May 2025 at 2.00 PM PKT, necessitating its postponement to a later date.
 

Sirbaz Khan becomes first Pakistani to summit all 14 highest peaks without oxygen​


Sirbaz Khan on Sunday successfully summited Mt. Kangchenjunga, the world’s third-highest mountain, without the use of supplementary oxygen, becoming the first Pakistani to scale all 14 peaks over 8,000 meters without bottled oxygen.

The summit was achieved at 5:00am local time (4:15am PKT), in what experts are calling a rare and heroic feat of high-altitude climbing.

The 35-year-old climber from Aliabad, Hunza in Gilgit-Baltistan completed the climb in true alpine style, with minimal gear, no fixed ropes or camps set by Sherpas, and no oxygen support.

With this achievement, Sirbaz now joins an elite group of mountaineers worldwide who have completed all 14 of the world’s “eight-thousanders”, including Everest (8,848m), K2 (8,611m), Kangchenjunga (8,586m), Lhotse (8,516m), Makalu (8,485m), Cho Oyu (8,188m), Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Manaslu (8,163m), Nanga Parbat (8,126m), Annapurna I (8,091m), Gasherbrum I (8,080m), Broad Peak (8,051m), Gasherbrum II (8,035m), and Shishapangma (8,027m).

Mountaineer Shehroze creates history

Alpine Club of Pakistan Secretary Karrar Haidri confirmed the summit and lauded the climber’s unparalleled commitment.

“With this summit, Sirbaz Khan becomes the first Pakistani to climb all 14 highest peaks without oxygen. It is a rare and historic milestone. He has made the entire nation proud,” Haidri said.

Sirbaz began his climbing career in 2016, and over the past decade has built a reputation for resilience, skill, and courage. He has been part of multiple major expeditions, including four alongside the late Muhammad Ali Sadpara, the legendary Pakistani climber whose dream was also to summit all 14 peaks.

Speaking ahead of his successful Dhaulagiri expedition last year, Sirbaz had paid tribute to his mentor: “I am looking forward to this expedition and reaching closer to the dream of my mentor Ali Sadpara, who had the similar dream of scaling the 14 highest peaks, but tragically lost his life earlier this year during a winter expedition on K-2.”

Record number of climbers chase 14-peak dream in Tibet

His latest feat has drawn congratulations from across the country, with climbers including Naila Kiani and Sajid Sadpara, as well as members of civil society and political leaders, commending his determination and contribution to Pakistan’s mountaineering legacy.

Sirbaz has long stated his mission is not only to raise the country’s flag atop the highest mountains in the world, but also to inspire a new generation of climbers from Pakistan to dream big and embrace the spirit of adventure.

Source: Business Recorder
 

Pakistan crush India to enter West Asia Baseball Cup final​


In another display of brilliant performance, Pakistan's base team grabbed a dominating victory over India by a 14-1 score in the West Asia Baseball Cup semifinal in Karaj, Iran.

The mercy rule was invoked after seven innings as Pakistan's commanding lead left no chance for an Indian comeback.

The defending champions came out swinging, putting up five runs in both the first and third innings to take firm control of the game.

Third baseman Hussain led the offensive charge, going 2-for-4 at the plate with two RBIs and four runs scored. Center fielder Wasim Akram and designated hitter Muhammad Rehan also had strong performances, combining for four hits and four runs batted in.

On the mound, starting pitcher Muhammad Haris set the tone with 4.1 solid innings, allowing just one earned run while striking out four Indian batters.

The bullpen was even more dominant, with relievers Syed Muhib Shah and Hussain Imam combining for five strikeouts over 2.2 scoreless innings to seal the victory.

India struggled in all phases of the game, committing an alarming 10 fielding errors while their pitchers issued eight walks. Their lone run came in the first inning, they managed just four hits total against Pakistan's stingy pitching staff.

With this emphatic win, Pakistan advances to Wednesday's final where they will face Palestine as they seek to defend their West Asia Baseball Cup title.

Meanwhile, in a video message, Pakistan Federation Baseball President Syed Fakhar Ali Shah said that the win against India is dedicated to armed forces of Pakistan.


Source: Tribune.com.pk
 
Renowned Pakistani mountaineer Naila Kiani on Friday became the first Pakistani woman to summit 12 of the world’s 14 eight-thousanders by successfully scaling 8,556-metre-high peak Kangchenjunga — the world’s third-highest mountain.

Her media coordinator Madeeha Syed confirmed the summit saying “The summit push began at approximately 6:30 p.m. PST on Thursday and continued through the night in severe high-altitude conditions, including intense snowfall and sub-zero temperatures. Despite the challenges, Kiani safely reached the summit, driven by unshakable determination and the support of a nation behind her.”

With only Shishapangma and Dhaulagiri remaining, Kiani is now closer than ever to completing the remarkable feat of climbing all 14 peaks above 8,000 meters.

 
Pakistan's Bano beat India's Richa to win gold at Asian Ju-Jitsu Championship

Pakistan's Bano Kousar defeated India's Richa Sharma to claim gold in the women’s 48-kilogram contact ju-jitsu category at the Asian Ju-Jitsu Championship on Sunday, marking a standout performance for Pakistan in the tournament.

Kousar's victory on Day 3 of the competition in Amman highlighted Pakistan's strong showing, which also included two bronze medals earlier in the week.
 
Naila Kiani waving Pakistan's flag, wearing green, at the top of Kanchenjunga. This 8586m peak lies in the border region between Koshi Province of Nepal and Sikkim state of India and also the highest peak in India.

 
Pakistan's Bano beat India's Richa to win gold at Asian Ju-Jitsu Championship

Pakistan's Bano Kousar defeated India's Richa Sharma to claim gold in the women’s 48-kilogram contact ju-jitsu category at the Asian Ju-Jitsu Championship on Sunday, marking a standout performance for Pakistan in the tournament.

Kousar's victory on Day 3 of the competition in Amman highlighted Pakistan's strong showing, which also included two bronze medals earlier in the week.
Indians getting smashed up left right centre
 
Pakistan’s Maqsood Amjad Rathore clinched the gold medal at the Asian Masters Weightlifting Championship held in Doha. He competed in the 65-year age group, 96kg weight category.
 
Why is india playing Pakistan is all these sports? The sindoor is only valuable for cricket games?
 
Defending champions Pakistan beats Kyrgyzstan 25-15, 25-14 and 25-18 to kickoff their campaign in CAVA nations cup volleyball

 
Pakistan’s rising javelin star Yasir Sultan has qualified for the final of the javelin throw event at the Asian Athletics Championship, marking a major milestone in his promising career. Competing in Group B, Yasir threw 76.7 metres to secure his place among Asia’s best. The final will be held tomorrow.

Olympic hero Arshad Nadeem also advanced to the final with a throw of 86.34 metres in Group A.

 
Pakistan's Umer Rasool Lone clinches GOLD at the Asian Masters Weightlifting Championship in Doha!
WhatsApp Image 2025-05-31 at 17.32.12_f7083f57.jpgHe ruled the Men’s 89kg (35+) category with a powerful 121kg Snatch, 155kg Clean & Jerk, and a remarkable 276kg total.
 
Pakistan advance to next stage in Central Asian Volleyball’s Nation’s League

Despite losing the last group match to Kazakhstan 3-1, Pakistan qualified for the Crossover stage as the top team in the Central Asian Volleyball’s Nation’s League in Farghana, Uzbekistan on Saturday.

According to a press release issued by the Pakistan Volleyball Federation, Kazakhstan beat Pakistan 31-29, 27-25, 19-25, 25-20.

Pakistan in their next match of the regional event take on arch-rivals India on Monday before facing Iran the next day.

DAWN NEWS
 
64-year old Pakistani wins Gold at Asian Indoor Rowing Championship

Mohammad Shehzad, a 64-year-old rower from Pakistan, delivered an outstanding performance at the Asian Indoor Rowing Championship in Thailand, clinching the gold medal in the 60+ singles category.

Shehzad, facing a younger Indian opponent, James Joseph, secured first place, making history with his victory and setting an Asian record of 1:32.30.

Shehzad's victory added to Pakistan’s impressive overall performance at the championship, where the nation secured 14 medals, including 10 gold, 3 silver, and 1 bronze.

The championship, held from May 26 to 31 in Pattaya, Thailand, saw athletes competing on indoor rowing machines, such as the Concept2 ergometer, simulating the rowing experience in a controlled environment.

This remarkable achievement capped off a series of successes by Pakistani rowers, with Abdul Jabbar and Tayyab Iftikhar also contributing to the medal tally.



 
PSB distributes more than Rs30mn as reward money among athletes, coaches

The Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) has distributed Rs30.83 million to athletes and coaches during the 2024-25 fiscal year in accordance with the National Sports Policy.

These awards were given to 29 medal-winning athletes and their coaches for outstanding performances and bringing laurels to Pakistan in various international competitions.

The disbursements were made on different occasions between November 2024 and May 2025.

Haider Ali, who won a bronze medal at the Paris Paralympics, received Rs5 million. Noor Zaman was similarly awarded Rs5 million for his victory in the Under-23 World Squash Championship.

Other notable recipients included Muhammad Asif, who received Rs2,500,000 for winning the IBSF World Snooker Championship, and footballer Muhammad Riaz who was granted Rs2,500,000 in special funds on instruction of PM after videos of him selling jalebis went viral on social media.

The junior squash team that secured a bronze medal at the Asian Junior Squash Championship saw each of its four members — Abdullah Nawaz, Anas Shah, Sakhiullah Tareen, and Nouman Khan — receive Rs375,000.

Their coaching staff, including head coach Faheem Gul and assistant coach Faraz Muhammad, were awarded Rs125,000 for this achievement.

The same coaches received additional payments of Rs833,000 each for guiding Zaman to his U23 world championship title.

In taekwondo, 12 medal winners at the Asian Open Championship received awards ranging from Rs500,000 lakh to Rs2 million, with the coaching staff also receiving their share of prize money.

Haroon Khan led the recipients with Rs2 million, while seven of his teammates were awarded Rs1 million each. The coaching staff, including head coach Yousaf Karami and his assistants, shared Rs1 million in recognition of their guidance.

PSB Director General Yasir Pirzada emphasised the systematic nature of these awards. "Our disbursements follow the National Sports Policy's graduated reward structure, which accounts for the level of competition and significance of achievement," he explained.

Looking ahead, DG PSB confirmed plans to distribute another Rs10 million in the coming weeks, before conclusion of the ongoing fiscal year, to other athletes who brough laurels to the country, including javelin star Arshad Nadeem and Special Olympics medalists.


 
British-Pakistani boxer Laura Akram reaches semi-final at World Boxing Challenge

In a groundbreaking achievement for Pakistan’s women’s boxing, Laura Akram has made history by securing the country’s first-ever world-level medal in elite women’s boxing.

The British-Pakistani boxer delivered a dominant performance in her quarterfinal bout at the prestigious World Boxing Challenge, held as part of the Grand Prix Ústí nad Labem in the Czech Republic, to earn a place in the semifinals and ensure herself a spot on the podium.

Akram, 39, who began competing for Pakistan internationally in 2023, was in stellar form during her 5-0 victory over Palestine’s Noura Salman in the 57kg category.

The emphatic win not only confirmed her spot in the semifinals but also clinched Pakistan’s first-ever medal in women’s boxing at the world level, a historic feat for the country.


 
British-Pakistani boxer Laura Akram reaches semi-final at World Boxing Challenge

In a groundbreaking achievement for Pakistan’s women’s boxing, Laura Akram has made history by securing the country’s first-ever world-level medal in elite women’s boxing.

The British-Pakistani boxer delivered a dominant performance in her quarterfinal bout at the prestigious World Boxing Challenge, held as part of the Grand Prix Ústí nad Labem in the Czech Republic, to earn a place in the semifinals and ensure herself a spot on the podium.

Akram, 39, who began competing for Pakistan internationally in 2023, was in stellar form during her 5-0 victory over Palestine’s Noura Salman in the 57kg category.

The emphatic win not only confirmed her spot in the semifinals but also clinched Pakistan’s first-ever medal in women’s boxing at the world level, a historic feat for the country.



Congratulations to Laura Akram.

I didn't know there was something called "women's boxing". :inti
 
Victorious start for Pakistan in Asian Volleyball Nations Cup, beats Phillipines 3-1 in opening match of group C.
 
Victorious start for Pakistan in Asian Volleyball Nations Cup, beats Phillipines 3-1 in opening match of group C.
 

Pakistan fall short as New Zealand lift FIH Nations Cup​


New Zealand defeated Pakistan in a high-intensity final of the FIH Nations Cup on Saturday, securing the championship title and earning a coveted promotion to the next edition of the FIH Pro League.

New Zealand made a spirited start to the summit clash as they found the back of the net twice but were disallowed on both occasions.

They eventually struck their first goal in the sixth minute as Scott Coslett successfully converted the penalty corner.

New Zealand doubled their lead in the last minute of the first quarter, courtesy of a precise field goal by Sam Hiha.

They were even more ruthless in the subsequent quarter as they netted their third through Dylan Thomas within two minutes.

Sean Findlay scored a sensational field goal in the next minute, putting New Zealand in complete control, while Scott Boyde made it 5-0 with just under four minutes to the halftime.

Pakistan eventually scored their first goal in the fifth minute of the third quarter when Zikriya Hayat breached New Zealand’s defence to smash the ball at the back of the net.

The green shirts got five penalty corners in the penultimate quarter but failed to convert, meaning the scoreline remained intact at 6-2.

Source: https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1...new-zealand-in-fih-nations-cup-final-showdown
 
Pakistan Beats Qatar to Qualify for Asian Volleyball Nations Cup Final

In an impressive display of skill and teamwork, Pakistan faced Qatar, in a repeat of last year’s final, in the semi-finals of the AVC Men’s Volleyball Nations Cup 2025, in Bahrain.

Pakistan smashed Qatar in a straight set 3-0 win, which not only showcased Pakistan’s volleyball prowess but also secured their place in the final, where they will compete for the championship title.

From the very beginning, Pakistan set the tone for the match. They took an early lead in the first set, using powerful serves and precise spikes that left the Qatari defense scrambling. With effective blocking and sharp attacks, Pakistan clinched the first set 25-18, signaling their intent to dominate.

As the second set unfolded, Qatar tried to regroup, but Pakistan’s relentless energy proved too much to handle. The Green Shirts maintained their momentum, with standout performances from key players executing well-timed plays and showcasing exceptional teamwork. They wrapped up the second set with a score of 25-20, pushing them closer to the final.

In the third set, Pakistan continued to assert their dominance, displaying a mix of tactical acumen and raw power. The team’s cohesion was evident as they executed complex plays with ease, ultimately sealing the match with a final set score of 25-15. This comprehensive victory highlighted not just their skill but also their determination to reclaim their status in Asian volleyball.

Pakistan will now face the winner of the second semi-final between Bahrain and South Korea in the final of the tournament. The second semi-final is scheduled to be played later tonight while the final will take place on Tuesday, 24 June.

This will be Pakistan’s second final appearance in the tournament while Bahrain has previously qualified for the final once and South Korea have never made it to the final previously.



 
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