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FOOTBALL - National 18 Jul, 2025
Sports Bulletin ReportLAHORE: President, Pakistan Football Federation (PFF), Syed Mohsen Gilani vowed to revive the game of football in the country, and the federation would set a roadmap to achieve the goal of promoting football in Pakistan.While addressing a press conference at the Football House in Lahore, accompanied by PFF Vice President Hafiz Zakaullah and Executive Committee Member from Punjab, Raja Amer Khan, he announced a bold roadmap to bring Pakistan football back on track, with clear plans to restore, develop, and uplift the sport across the country. He shared that he recently met with FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who expressed satisfaction with the way the PFF elections were conducted.The PFF President stated that the new leadership is determined to take steps that can benefit football development. He stressed that Pakistan football is no longer in a stagnant phase and will now move ahead at a fast pace.The revival of FIFA Development Programs in Pakistan is among the federation’s top priorities. Two key FIFA initiatives will soon be implemented. The first is the FIFA Arena Program, for which an agreement has already been signed with FIFA. Under this program, modern mini-pitches will be constructed, starting with two pilot projects. Schools across Pakistan will be encouraged to participate and utilize these facilities.The second major program is Football for Schools in Pakistan. The federation is actively coordinating with the government to implement this program nationwide. Talks are also ongoing with La Liga, which is expected to assist the PFF in reviving the sport through training, infrastructure, and technical support.Responding to media questions, the PFF President clarified that there are currently no complete records of the previous Goal Projects. He emphasized that only the Disciplinary Committees will decide the fate of any banned officials and that no external influence will interfere in those matters.Regarding the Professional League, the President explained that a professional league is the soul of any federation. Work is already in progress to develop a new league system. Although it cannot be launched immediately, the goal is to roll it out as soon as possible, and make it one of the finest in the region.Special focus is also being placed on women’s football. The President highlighted that Pakistan’s women footballers are performing well, and the federation is planning to establish dedicated departments for their development. FIFA has also assured its support in coaching, technical assistance, and broader development for women in football.On the financial side, the PFF is confident that football in Pakistan can be run in a sustainable and business-like manner. The federation plans to generate its own revenue through strategic planning and commercial initiatives.The PFF President also shared that relations with the government are strong. When FIFA President Giani Infantino and AFC President Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa visits Pakistan, they are expected to meet with high-level government officials, further strengthening the partnership between the federation and state institutions, he concluded.
VOLLEYBALL - Int News 18 Jul, 2025
Sports Bulletin ReportNakhon Phanom (Thailand): The Pakistan U16 Men’s Volleyball Team crushed traditional foes India in straight games 3-0 in the semifinal of the ongoing 2nd Asian Men’s U16 Volleyball Championship 2025 to qualify for the final here on Friday.The highly anticipated match took place today, 18th July 2025, and saw Team Pakistan dominate with set scores of 25-16, 25-19, and 25-12, securing a comprehensive victory and punching their ticket to the final of the Championship.The match showcased exceptional skills, discipline, and team coordination. Among the standout performers were Junaid, Faizan, Irfan, and Talha, who led the attack and defense with composure and determination throughout the game.Pakistan’s superior blocking and fast counter-attacks left the Indian team struggling to gain momentum. The result not only highlights Pakistan’s potential at the youth level but also secures their position as one of Asia’s strongest emerging volleyball nations.Head Coach Kafait Ullah said: “Today’s match was not just a win over our arch-rivals India; it was a statement. Our players have shown incredible resilience, maturity, and teamwork throughout the tournament. I am immensely proud of each one of them. Beating India in such a convincing manner in the semi-final is a huge morale boost ahead of the final. We now shift our focus to the Final against Iran, which will be another tough battle, but the boys are ready.”Next Challenge: The Final: Following today’s victory, Pakistan has officially qualified for the Final, where they will face a formidable opponent — Iran — on 19th July 2025 at 3:30 PM Pakistan Standard Time. The match is expected to be a thrilling contest between two of the strongest teams in the tournament.
VOLLEYBALL - Int News 16 Jul, 2025
Islamabad (Sports Desk): The Pakistan U-16 Men’s Volleyball Team has achieved a historic feat by securing a commanding victory over Indonesia in the Quarter-Final of the 2nd Asian Men’s U16 Volleyball Championship, currently taking place in Nakhon Phanom, Thailand. The match, held on 16 July 2025, concluded with Pakistan winning in straight sets: 25-23, 25-20, 25-20.This outstanding performance not only sends Pakistan into the Semi-Final of the championship, to be played on 18 July 2025, but also secures Pakistan’s qualification for the FIVB U17 World Championship 2026 — a landmark achievement for the country’s youth volleyball program.The team delivered a clinical performance, marked by tactical discipline, athleticism, and teamwork. The standout players in today’s match were:Junaid – Strong serves and offensive commandFaizan – Smart setting and court leadershipTalha – Dominant at the net with powerful spikesSaran – Excellent defense and transition playsHead Coach Kafait Ullah commended the boys, saying: “This win is not just about reaching the semi-final; it's about proving that Pakistan's youth has the strength and skill to compete at the highest levels. Qualification for the FIVB U17 World Championship is a moment of national pride.”President Sohail Khawar Mir and Chairman Ch. Muhammad Yaqoob of the Pakistan Volleyball Federation (PVF) congratulated the team and support staff for making the nation proud. They emphasized that this success is a result of long-term investment in youth development and the federation’s focus on building a strong foundation for the future of Pakistani volleyball.With three group-stage victories against South Korea, Saudi Arabia, and Chinese Taipei, and now a quarter-final win over Indonesia, Pakistan stands undefeated and determined.The Semi-Final on 18 July 2025 will be another opportunity for Pakistan to make history. The PVF encourages fans across the country to show their support and follow the match live.
FOOTBALL - National 16 Jul, 2025
Quetta, (SBR) July 15 - The highly anticipated 5th All Pakistan CM Balochistan Football Gold Cup has finally arrived, and what a spectacle it is! The tournament kicked off with great fanfare at the Ayub Sports Complex Football Ground, with Advisor for Sports, Meena Majeed, formally inaugurating the mega event.The ceremony was attended by esteemed guests, including Provincial Minister for Education, Raheela Durrani, Sardar Rasool Bux, Baba Umrani, Secretary Sports and youth affairs, Durra Baloch, Director General of Sports Dr.Yasir khan Bazai, Assistant director Asif langove, Deputy Director, Asif Farooqi, Kamran Khurshid, and Assistant Director, Muhib Ur Rehman .In her address, Advisor for Sports, Meena Majeed, highlighted the vision of CM Mir Sarfraz Bugti to engage youth in sports and promote a culture of peace and harmony. "This tournament is a testament to our commitment to showcasing the true spirit of Balochistan commitments a land of hospitality, love for sports, and hatred for terrorism," She emphasized.Secretary Sports and Youth affairs, Durra Baloch, reflected the similar sentiments, saying, "Balochistan is a land of passionate football fans, and this tournament is a perfect platform to showcase our love for the beautiful game. We welcome teams from all over Pakistan to participate in this mega event and discover new talent."The tournament will feature 67 teams from across the country, competing in a series of thrilling matches from July 15 to July 31. The final match will be played on July 31, with the winning team taking home a whopping Rs. 25 lac prize. The runner-up will receive Rs. 15 lac, while the third-place team will be awarded Rs. 5 lac.The inaugural match was played between Baloch Football Club Noshki and Afghan Football Club Chaman, which was ended with 1.1 goal setting the tone for an exciting tournament ahead.
Markram and Matthews named ICC Players of the Month for June 2025
Sports Bulletin ReportDubai (UAE): South Africa batter Aiden Markram and West Indies skipper Hayley Matthews have been announced as the winners of the ICC Men’s and Women’s Player of the Month awards for June 2025.Markram won the men’s award ahead of team-mate Kagiso Rabada and Sri Lanka opener Pathum Nissanka for his for Player of the Match effort in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final against Australia at Lord’s.The 30-year-old opener struck a solid 136 off 207 balls and featured in a 147-run third wicket stand with captain Temba Bavuma in a successful chase of 282. The five-wicket victory helped South Africa win an ICC Title for the first time since the Champions Trophy in 1998. Markram also picked up a wicket each in the two innings.Matthews, who has previously won the awards in November 2021, October 2023 and April 2024, edged South Africa’s Tazmin Brits and compatriot Afy Fletcher to become only the second player to win the award four times after Australia all-rounder Ashleigh Gardner.The West Indies skipper scored 104 runs in the three ODIs against South Africa, which included a half-century in the third match. She also grabbed four wickets in the series. Her fine run continued in the subsequent 2-1 T20I series win. She was named Player of the Series for her two fifties in an aggregate of 147 runs and two wickets.Markram said: "It is a privilege to receive this award. To contribute to an ICC World Test Championship win for our team and South Africa is something that means a lot to me. “Winning the final at Lord's is a historic moment for South African cricket, and it is something we will all remember forever. This victory was only possible due to the combined efforts of the entire team, with crucial contributions from KG (Kagiso Rabada) and Tembs (Temba Bavuma)."Matthews said: “It’s an honour to receive the Player of the Month award again. I’ve been pleased with my form recently, but more importantly, it’s been great to contribute to the team’s success—especially in a hard-fought T20I series against South Africa. "Recognition like this is appreciated, but my focus remains on what’s ahead. There’s a lot more I want to achieve, both personally and with this team. We’re heading in the right direction, and I’m excited about where we can go from here.”
CLIMBING - Int News 14 Jul, 2025
Sports Bulletin ReportChamonix (France): At the Place du Mont Blanc in Chamonix, France both the Lead and Speed climbers were treated to a packed-out crowd as over 10,000 people took to the streets to watch World Cup medals won in the heart of the mountain town.In the Lead, both South Korea’s Seo Chaehyun and Anraku Sorato won their sixth Lead World Cup gold medals in tightly contested finals.Seo beat USA’s Annie Sanders who took silver and Great Britain’s Erin McNeice who took bronze to the top spot, while Anraku held off competition from Spain’s Alberto Ginés López who took silver in the men’s and Filip Schenk who took bronze for the first World Cup medal of his career.In Speed, both the world record holders won their respective competitions as USA’s Sam Watson and Poland’s Aleksandra Miroslaw both returned to the top step of the podium after disappointing Kraków results last time out. Kazakhstan’s Rishat Khaibullin won the second silver of his career, both coming in Chamonix, while Watson’s teammate Zach Hammer joined him on the podium taking bronze.The women’s podium was a switch up of Kraków’s as this time Miroslaw took gold, Indonesia’s Desak Made Rita Kusuma Dewi took silver and USA’s Emma Hunt took bronze. The next IFSC World Cup will take place in Madrid, Spain on 18-19 July with the Lead discipline. Speed’s next, and final, World Cup of the 2025 season will be held in Guiyang, China in September.
Lahore Qalandars & PM Youth Program announce boys and girls teams
Karachi(PR): The two-day talent hunt trials, jointly organised by Lahore Qalandars and the Prime Minister's Youth Program, concluded successfully in Karachi, with the announcement of 15-member boys and girls teams.The trials took place at NED University, where thousands of aspiring cricketers participated with hopes of joining the Qalandars system. Following the trials, coaches Marina Iqbal and Riaz Afridi, along with Lahore Qalandars CEO Atif Rana, announced the selected players in a press conference.About the trials PMYP-Lahore Qalandars trials in Karachi, Atif Rana said that the massive turnout reflects the trust of youth in Lahore Qalandars. “Our player development journey began 10 years ago, and many of today's top players emerged from this very program,” he said. “Prime Minister's endorsement of our work empowered us to take this initiative nationwide.”He added that nearly 15,000 male and female players came forward in Karachi, showing their faith in the Qalandars system. “From here, we will move to Hyderabad and eventually form five teams from Sindh,” he added.Lahore Qalandars CEO further elaborated that under the program, five teams each will be formed from every province, Azad Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan. These teams will participate in regional tournaments, from which the best players will qualify for the national tournament. The top national performers will be trained at the Lahore Qalandars High-Performance Center.Coaches Marina Iqbal and Riaz Afridi praised the raw talent and enthusiasm shown by players during the Karachi trials. They appreciated the PMYP-Lahore Qalandars talent hunt cricket trails initiative at such a huge level, which was widely participated by cricket enthusiasts across Karachi and the best talent earned their placed in the 15-member boys and girls teams. The selected girls team (Karachi) includes Yesri Aamir, Alizeh Sabir, Arija Haseeb, Aamna Zahid, Taskeen Fatima, Kainat Iman, Aneza Arif, Syeda Batool Fatima, Shabnam Hayat, Masooma Jafri, Ubeera Riaz, Faiqa Tariq, Arij Aamir, Maryam Ahmed, Isha Naeem.The selected boys team (Karachi) comprises Arman Shehzad, Abdullah Javed, Mohammad Siddiq, Umar Farooq, Zain Anwar, Hamza Malik, Ali Shoaib, M. Shaheer, Mohammad Furman, Naveedullah, Syed Zain, Abdul Rauf, Muaz Shah Afridi, Abdul Jaleel, Syed Rehan Shah.
VOLLEYBALL - Int News 12 Jul, 2025
Nakhon Phanom (Thailand): Pakistan U16 Men’s Volleyball Team has made an impressive debut at the 2nd Asian Men’s U16 Volleyball Championship beating Korea 3-9 in currently underway in Nakhon Phanom, Thailand, from 12th to 19th July 2025.In their opening group-stage fixture today, Pakistan defeated South Korea—a traditionally strong volleyball nation—with an emphatic 3-0 victory, posting set scores of 25-16, 25-19, and 25-08.This remarkable performance reflects the hard work and discipline the team has put into their preparation. The match saw dominant court presence, precise execution of strategies, and cohesive team play from Pakistan right from the first set.Key PerformersSeveral young athletes stood out in today’s game:Saran Baig showcased his versatility with powerful spikes and consistent blocking.Wahab Abdullah delivered sharp serves and played a crucial role in the team’s transition play.Asad Ullah dominated the net with intelligent placements and aggressive attacks.Muhammad Junaid controlled the game flow with his excellent setting and defensive coverage.The victory over Korea not only boosts Pakistan’s confidence but also positions them strongly within the group for qualification to the next round. The comprehensive nature of the win, especially the commanding third set at 25-08, reflects the team's rising stature at the Asian level.Next Match – Pakistan vs Saudi ArabiaThe Pakistan U16 Team will face Saudi Arabia in their second group match, scheduled to take place on 13th July 2025 at 01:00 PM Pakistan Standard Time. This match will be crucial in determining Pakistan's pathway into the knockout stage of the championship.
Irfan Khan to lead Pakistan Shaheens in Top End T20 Series
Lahore(SBR): Mohammad Irfan Khan, who has featured in nine ODIs and 14 T20Is for Pakistan will lead Pakistan Shaheens in the Top End T20 Series scheduled to take place in Darwin, Australia from 14 to 24 August. Pakistan Shaheens will play the opening match of the 11-team tournament against Bangladesh ‘A’ on 14 August at TIO Stadium in Darwin.The 15-member squad announced includes Abdul Samad (five T20Is), Faisal Akram (three ODIs), Haider Ali (two ODIs, 35 T20Is), Mubasir Khan (one T20I) – all featured for Pakistan men’s team previously, while Ahmed Daniyal and Mohammad Salman Mirza are part of Pakistan T20I squad for upcoming Bangladesh series.Shaheens’ second fixture in the T20 tournament will be against Scorchers at the TIO Stadium on 16 August, with the first ball set to be bowled at 4pm local time. The third Shaheens’ encounter in the tournament will be against Renegades on 18 August at the same venue with the first ball to be bowled at 6pm local time. On 19 August, Shaheens will take on Kingsmen at the DXC Arena with first ball to be bowled at 1pm local time.Shaheens’ fifth fixture in the event will be against Strikers at the DXC Arena, with the first ball to be bowled at 7pm. The sixth and final fixture of Shaheens will be against Nepal on 22 August at the DXC Arena with the first ball to be bowled at 7pm local time.The semi-finals and final of the event are scheduled for 24 August.The training camp for the Darwin-bound squad will be announced in due course.15-member squad:Mohammad Irfan Khan (captain), Abdul Samad, Ahmed Daniyal, Faisal Akram, Haider Ali, Maaz Sadaqat, Mehran Mumtaz, Khawaja Mohammad Nafay (wicket-keeper), Muhammad Ghazi Ghori (wicket-keeper), Mubasir Khan, Saad Masood, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Shahid Aziz, Ubaid Shah and Yasir KhanTeam management:Ghulam Ali (head coach), Sami Ullah Niazi (bowling coach), Mansoor Amjad (fielding coach), Mohammad Ibrahim (analyst) and Mohammad Aleem (physio)Pakistan Shaheens fixtures:14 Aug – vs Bangladesh ‘A’, TIO Stadium (7pm local time)16 Aug – vs Scorchers, TIO Stadium (4pm local time)18 Aug – vs Renegades, TIO Stadium (6pm local time)19 Aug – vs Kingsmen, DXC Arena (1pm local time)20 Aug – vs Strikers, DXC Arena (7pm local time)22 Aug – vs Nepal, DXC Arena (7pm local time)24 Aug – Semi-finals and final
Bat Speed Meets Brainpower : Julian Wood's Formula for Lankan Firepower
BIPIN DANIIn the ever-evolving landscape of modern cricket, where boundary-hitting has become an indispensable art, one man stands out for his scientific approach to unleashing brute force with finesse—Julian Wood. The former Hampshire cricketer turned power-hitting specialist has revolutionized the way batters train to clear the ropes, combining cricketing nuances with cutting-edge biomechanics and baseball-inspired methodologies.Wood’s trademark invention, the Power Hitting Program, isn't just a buzzword—it's a transformation toolkit. With stints at the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), various county teams, and IPL franchise Punjab Kings, Wood’s reputation as a hitter-whisperer has crossed continents. His upcoming assignment with Sri Lanka Cricket, set from 30th July to 5th August, marks a strategic investment into sharpening the big-hitting blades of both men’s and women’s national teams.Purpose-Driven PartnershipIn a bid to ready its arsenal for prestigious assignments like the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, Asia Cup, and the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup, Sri Lanka has roped in Wood to collaborate with National Coaches. His goal? To decode the science behind explosive stroke play and empower the next generation of Lankan finishers.Speaking to this reporter from England, Wood exudes optimism, "Yes, hopefully, the Sri Lankan cricketers will benefit more with this new technique. I have already spoken with head coach Sanath Jayasuriya and have worked with Dasun Shanaka and Kusal Mendis in Abu Dhabi during T10 tournaments."He further revealed his special focus on uplifting women’s cricket, "I will be devoting two days with the women players in Sri Lanka. My service will benefit all the Lankan players—men and women—when they play 10-over tournaments. I will make them understand the techniques behind this."Innovation Born of BaseballWood’s methodology isn’t simply about muscle—it’s about mechanics. Years of studying biomechanics in the USA, particularly within baseball training regimes, led him to craft bespoke cricket-specific aids and drills that refine swing efficiency and generate greater bat speed. His patented training techniques are now sought-after by players craving consistency in striking the long ball under pressure.A Global VoyageWhile Wood won’t meet the Indian squad touring England currently, his cricketing footprint continues to expand. He shared, “I’ll be heading to the Cayman Islands next Monday to train players there.”That globe-trotting schedule is a testament to his stature as a pioneer in cricket’s brave new world—a world where power is no longer raw, but refined.
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