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487 athletes confirmed for Asian Taekwondo Open Championships
Abdul Jabbar FaisalISLAMABAD: Around 487 athletes from 22 different Countries have confirmed their participation in the Combaxx 7th Asian Taekwondo Open Championships 2025, which will kick off on February 14 at the international sports arena Liaquat Gymnasium, Pakistan Sports Complex Islamabad.According to an official of Pakistan Taekwondo Federation (PTF), 487 athletes from 22 countries, including Pakistan, have registered to participate in the Combaxx 7th Asian Taekwondo Open Championships 2025. 110 athletes will show their game skill in the Poomsae fixture while 100 players will participate in Junior Kyorugi category competitions. 277 athletes of the region will fight for top honour in the Senior Kyorugi fixture.International martial arts event is scheduled to take place from February 14 to 20, 2025. This international championship marks a significant milestone in Pakistan's taekwondo history and represents a major step toward promoting the sport on the global stage.Registration for the championship remains open until 11th February 2025, providing a final opportunity for interested athletes to participate in this landmark event. Athletes from various countries have expressed their excitement to visit Pakistan, appreciating the country's renowned hospitality and looking forward to competing at a high level. 

CRICKET - ICC 06 Feb, 2025

ICC Player of the Month nominees unveiled for January
Sports Bulletin ReportDubai (UAE): The International Cricket Council (ICC) today announced the players in contention for the ICC Men’s and Women’s Player of the Month awards for January, highlighting the top performers from a busy month of international cricket. Three talented spinners comprise the shortlist of candidates for the ICC Men’s Player of the Month, after all enjoyed a prolific start to 2025 in both long and short formats.Noman Ali seeks to win his second ICC Men’s Player of the Month award after wicket-taking feats and a historic hattrick in Pakistan’s World Test Championship series against the West Indies. First-time nominee Jomel Warrican topped the bowling charts in that series and led the tourists to their first Test win in the Pakistan for 34 years. Varun Chakravarthy completes the trio, after a string of stellar displays in India’s T20I triumph over England.ICC Men’s Player of the Month Nominees for January:Noman Ali (Pakistan): Having won his maiden ICC Men’s Player of the Month award back in October 2024, Noman continues his impressive run in Pakistan’s Test bowling attack with another fruitful series against a spirited West Indies side in Multan. 16 Wickets fell to the left-armer across two matches, culminating in a ten-wicket performance in the second Test that included figures of six for 41 in the first innings and a brilliant hattrick – the first by a Pakistan spinner in Test cricket.Varun Chakravarthy (India): Another player who continues to enjoy fine form in international cricket, Chakravarthy was a threatening presence in India’s decisive T20I series against England in January. His four matches during the calendar month heralded 12 wickets at a startling average of 9.41, highlighted by a superb five for 24 in Rajkot – his best return in a home T20I – and has since seen him propel up the ICC Men’s T20I Bowler rankings to joint second position.Jomel Warrican (West Indies): Nominated for the very first time, the 32-year old celebrated a triumphant return to Test action in January with 19 wickets across both Tests in Pakistan. Awarded the Player of the Series for his efforts, Warrican took ten wickets in the first Test including a career-best seven for 32 in the second innings, before inspiring a landmark victory in the second encounter. Chipping in with valuable runs in the lower order, the left-arm spinner claimed five for 27 in the second innings to secure the 120-run win.ICC Women’s Player of the Month Nominees for January:Beth Mooney (Australia): As Australia stormed to an Ashes sweep over England, Mooney was an ever-present force in the ODI and T20I encounters. A subdued start to the series by her standards came to an end with a battling half-century in the third ODI in Hobart, and from there her series came to life. Saving her best performances for the 20-over contests, the opener notched 213 runs at a blistering strike rate of 146.89, with scores of 75 and 44 preceding a stunning 94 not out in Adelaide in just 63 balls. These performances helped Mooney consolidate her position atop the Women’s T20I Batter rankings and sees her nominated for the first time since January 2024.Karishma Ramharack (West Indies): Ramharack celebrates her maiden nomination for the Player of the Month award, and features among the trio of contenders thanks to impressive performances in the West Indies’ ODI series against Bangladesh. With the hosts having won the opening match, the off-spinner recorded her first four-wicket haul in the format with four for 33, albeit in a losing cause in Basseterre. Her good form continued in the decider, where she went one better and recorded career-best figures of four for 12 to seal a comfortable eight-wicket victory and the Player of the Series prize.Gongadi Trisha (India): The 19-year-old was the toast of Malaysia at the recently concluded U19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2025, starring in India’s surge to the silverware with a record-breaking campaign. With 265 runs and 4 wickets coming in January’s contests, she hit the headlines with an inspired performance against Scotland; striking the first century in U19 Women’s T20 World Cup history with 110 not out off 59 balls before taking three wickets for six runs. As the tournament progressed, Trisha then capped a sterling campaign with a Player of the Match performance in the final that saw her named the outstanding player at the event.

CRICKET - ICC 06 Feb, 2025

Completion of Gaddafi Stadium in 117 days, a remarkable milestone
Lahore (PCB Report): The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is set to welcome cricket fans with a spectacular opening ceremony on 7 February, ahead of the Pakistan versus New Zealand match on 8 February. The tri-nation ODI series will be followed by the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which begins on 19 February.Fans can look forward to a series of colourful events, including live singing, stunning fireworks and a unique light show. Renowned singers Ali Zafar, Arif Lohar and Aima Baig will grace the stage with electrifying performances, followed by a dazzling drum and firework display. The opening ceremony, to be attended by Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, will be free for the public from 5.30 pm, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.Under the leadership of PCB Chair Mohsin Naqvi, the PCB has transformed the stadium into a modern cricketing venue in a record 117 days. The stadium now features brighter LED lights, two new larger score screens and comfortable imported seating in all enclosures, ensuring an unparalleled viewing experience for fans.Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has personally overseen the reconstruction process, making frequent day and night visits to monitor progress. His dedication has resulted in world-class facilities, including newly built hospitality boxes and upgraded amenities for both players and spectators.PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi: “Our venues are now on par with international standards and we are proud to offer cricket fans the best possible experience. The transformation of this stadium in such a short time is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team.“First of all, I thank the workers who made the impossible task possible. The combined efforts of Frontier Works Organisation (FWO), NESPAK, the contractors and PCB teams have turned this dream into reality. Despite criticism, our team remained committed and Allah Ta’ala made our path easy.”The stadium’s enhancements ensure that fans will enjoy a world-class cricketing experience, with improved seating arrangements, exceptional viewing angles and a festive atmosphere. The PCB remains steadfast in its mission to provide top-tier cricketing events and showcase Pakistan as a premier host for international matches.With preparations complete, the PCB is ready to deliver a grand spectacle with the tri-nation ODI series, setting the stage for an exciting ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

CRICKET - Int News 06 Feb, 2025

Tears and Cheers: "It's Hard to Put into Words, says DK's Sister
BIPIN DANIThe Galle International Stadium was buzzing with anticipation. The Sri Lankan cricketing world gathered to honor one of its finest, former captain Dimuth Karunratne, on the occasion of his 100th and final Test match against Australia. His family—father Lal, mother Chandrika, wife Inami Avandya, and uncle—was present, beaming with pride. The only missing face was that of his younger sister, Dikri, who is in Australia, working as a marketing assistant.Speaking exclusively from Australia, Dikri's emotions were palpable. "I honestly regret not being there for him during such a significant moment, and it’s something that has really weighed on my heart. Not being there in person made me feel incredibly emotional and sad. While I did speak to him and wished him all the best, I can’t help but feel that my presence would have made a difference. As a sibling, being there to offer support and share that experience with him would have meant so much. I know that just being there physically, standing by his side, would have given him even more strength and comfort during such an important time in his career. It’s hard to put into words how much I wish I could have been there to truly share that final moment with him."Dikri's journey alongside her brother was a tapestry woven with memories. "He is, without a doubt, one of the most hardworking and focused individuals I’ve ever known. I still vividly remember when our parents would take him to different grounds for his matches when we were little. The bag he carried on his chest was bigger than he was back then, and it’s a memory I’ll never forget."Reflecting on Dimuth’s career, she added, "This journey was far from easy for him. Like many others, he faced countless ups and downs to get to where he is today. But through it all, the support he received from our mother and father was one of the greatest blessings in his life. Their unwavering belief in him kept him going, no matter how difficult things got."She recalled the tough times, "I also remember the tough times—when he was injured and had to be hospitalized. The physical pain he endured and the mental strength it took to push through those challenges are things people don’t often see. From the outside, it may seem like everything came easy, that he was just playing and scoring well. But the reality is, to reach that level, he had to pour his heart and soul into the game, making countless sacrifices and working harder than anyone could imagine. The journey wasn’t just about talent; it was about persistence, resilience, and a deep love for the game.""It’s been such an honor to be his sister and grow up alongside someone as special as him. While it’s incredibly emotional to see his final match, we can’t help but feel proud of everything he’s accomplished throughout his career. The fact that his 100th and final Test match is at the same Galle Cricket Ground where he debuted makes it even more meaningful. These moments are truly unforgettable. As a family, we completely support his decision to retire. He feels this is the right time, and he knows it will give younger, talented players the chance they deserve. Through it all, he’s remained humble, thoughtful, and kind—a true inspiration," she concluded with pride and love.On the field, Dimuth showcased his unwavering spirit, scoring 36 runs before being bowled by Nathan Lyon. The moment was bittersweet, but a personal message from his wife Inami on the eve of his retirement decision encapsulated it all. "Through every high and low, I never left your side. I’m the one who was happier when you even scored or not! I’ll be right by your side for every beautiful moment and sad moment!"The Galle International Stadium stood witness to a chapter closing, but also the celebration of a stellar career. As Dimuth Karunratne walked off the field, he carried with him the love and pride of his family, the respect of his teammates, and the admiration of fans worldwide. 

POLO - Local News 06 Feb, 2025

FG and BN/Newage secure wins in Jinnah Gold Cup Polo Tournament
LAHORE (PR): The 5th Jinnah Gold Cup Polo Tournament 2025, organized by Jinnah Polo Fields (JPF), witnessed two thrilling matches on the second day of action.In the first match, FG dominated JPF with an 8-4½ victory. JPF suffered an early setback when their key player Raja Sami was injured and had to leave the field, with Hamza Mawaz Khan stepping in as his replacement. Raul Laplacette led FG’s charge with an impressive display, scoring four brilliant goals. Raja Mikael Sami netted two, while Nicolas Ruiz Guinazu and Mian Abbas Mukhtar contributed one goal each. On the other side, Hamza Mawaz Khan scored all four goals for JPF, while they also benefited from a half goal handicap advantage. In the second match of the day, BN/Newage edged past Olympia/AZB with a narrow 4½-4 victory. BN/Newage's win was secured through their half-goal handicap advantage. Argentina’s 17-year-old rising star, Marcos Solari, was the hero for BN/Newage, scoring all four goals. For Olympia/AZB, Luis Manuel Aguirre netted all four goals in a valiant effort. The tournament action continues on Friday (February 7, 2025), with DS taking on FG in the first match, while HN face Olympia/AZB in the second encounter of the day. The winners will advance to the final of the prestigious Jinnah Gold Cup Polo Tournament. 

HOCKEY - Int News 06 Feb, 2025

Aussies stun Olympic champions as Hockeyroos edge China in shootout
Sports Bulletin ReportLausanne (Switzerland): Australia’s inexperienced young team rallied from a defeat at the hands of Spain a day earlier to claim an unexpected 4-2 victory over Olympic champions the Netherlands in a FIH Hockey Pro League clash in Sydney on Thursday.(Men’s) Australia 4 – 2 Netherlands: The young Australians started the first quarter far better than their opening match on Wednesday and created a couple of early circle penetrations. The Dutch still exploited some big gaps in the Kookaburras’ structure and had repeated success with long probing passes and runs through the centre, goalkeeper Jed Snowden doing sterling work on four occasions to deny them through the first quarter.Australia tightened their structure in the second period, which relieved a lot of the self-inflicted pressure. The Netherlands still created good opportunities, but the Australians got stronger as the half progressed and Jake Harvie fired them ahead with a 27th-minute penalty stroke for a 1-0 lead at half time.That lead was doubled in the 34th minute when Davis Atkin bagged his first international goal with a bunted shot over the goalkeeper after receiving a long overhead from Corey Weyer. The Dutch grew increasingly frustrated as the hosts bossed the third quarter, and found themselves three down when Copper Burns scored his first international goal in the 43rd minute. Koen Bijen pulled one back with a deflection from a recycled penalty corner and it was 3-1 heading into the final period.Tjep Hoedemakers snatched a rebound goal for the Dutch in the 47th minute, but Ky Willott immediately restored the Kookaburras’ two-goal cushion with a tap-in at the right post. The contest played out at a frenetic pace as the Dutch pushed hard for a result, but there were no further goals.(Women’s) Australia 2 – 2 China (SO: 2 – 1): Hosts Australia played out a 2-2 draw with China before going on to clinch the shootout 2-1.In a rematch of the Olympic quarterfinal, which China won, it was the Australians who dominated the first quarter, creating circle entries and half chances, without much success, however. The Hockeyroos were eventually rewarded when Claire Colwill fired them ahead with a penalty stroke in the dying seconds of the quarter.Australia struck again in the 16th minute, when Courtney Schonell got a good deflection from open play. China gradually established some control through the second quarter and made it count from their third penalty corner, Jinzhuang Tan beating the defence in the 28th minute.There were some sweeping attacks and dangerous moments in both circles as the space seemed to open up in a goalless third quarter, and the match was in the balance with Australia holding a slender 2-1 lead heading into the final period.The Hockeyroos got on the front foot quickly, but poor execution of 46th and 48th-minute penalty corners kept China in touch. The Chinese then made a brave decision to substitute their goalkeeper with 11 minutes left on the clock. They carried tremendous attacking momentum through the next seven minutes and were rewarded when Tan equalised with her second from a 56th-minute penalty corner. China immediately got Li Xinhuan back in the cage where she saved a penalty corner a minute later.Lucy Sharman had a sharp chance to snatch victory for the Hockeyroos with seconds left on the clock, but her shot slipped wide. With the points shared, Australia went on to clinch the shootout 2-1 for a bonus point.

SPORTS NEWS - National 06 Feb, 2025

Ubaid Ullah earns "Pride of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Award 2025."
PESHAWAR (PR): The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has long been known for producing talented athletes, and among them, Ubaid Ullah Khan has emerged as a shining star in the world of martial arts. Recognizing his remarkable achievements, Metrix Pakistan has decided to honor him with the "Pride of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Award 2025." This prestigious recognition is not only a personal milestone for him but also a source of inspiration for young athletes across the province.Ubaid Ullah Khan has earned multiple accolades throughout his career, excelling both at the national and international levels. His achievements include:Bronze Medal in the National Wushu Championship, Two-time Gold Medalist in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Wushu ChampionshipGold Medal in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Under-21 GamesGold Medal in the French Kickboxing (Savate) International ChampionshipThese accomplishments reflect his dedication, perseverance, and relentless hard work, which have propelled him to the top ranks of martial arts in Pakistan.Ubaid Ullah Khan’s success is not just a personal victory; it serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring athletes in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. His journey proves that with passion, determination, and unwavering commitment, no goal is out of reach.The decision to award him the "Pride of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Award" further underscores the abundance of talent in the province. With proper guidance and opportunities, young athletes can follow in his footsteps and bring glory to Pakistan on international platforms.Ubaid Ullah Khan’s achievements are set to inspire a new generation of martial artists, motivating them to aim higher and work harder in pursuit of excellence.

GOLF - National 06 Feb, 2025

Rashid D. Habib Open: Defender and runner-up share lead on first day
Abdullah AsjadKARACHI: The first round of the Bank AL Habib 14th Rashid D. Habib National Professional Golf Tournament rolled into action here at Karachi Golf Club, delivering an exhilarating day of competition as top professional golfers showcased their talent on the course.Ahmed Baig and Mohammad Zubair dominated the leaderboard, both carding an impressive 65 (-7), setting the pace for the tournament. Their stellar performances were marked by precise driving and superb putting, making them the players to watch in the coming rounds. Close on their heels, Mohammad Munir posted a solid 67 (-5), followed by Mudassir Iqbal with a 68 (-4), keeping the competition intense.The course played exceptionally well, with ideal weather conditions favoring aggressive play. The par-5 holes proved to be the biggest scoring opportunities, with many players taking advantage to gain strokes on the field. Notably, Ahmed Baig's consistency across the front and back nine helped him secure his top spot, while Zubair's precision on the greens solidified his position.Following closely behind, Mohammad Sajjad, Mohammad Sharif of Pakistan Navy (PN), and Tallat Ijaz each finished with a score of 69 (-3), positioning themselves within striking distance of the leaders. With such a tightly contested leaderboard, the next rounds promise to deliver thrilling golf action. Two of the amateurs broke 80 namely Sadiq Habib (77) and Arsalan Shikoh Khan (78).“This championship always brings out the best in the players, and today was no exception,” said tournament director Commodore Zafar and the chief referee Col Zahid. “The competition is heating up, and we anticipate an exciting battle over the next three days.”

POLO - Local News 04 Feb, 2025

CrewLogix Technologies beat CTI Shipping in 4th Junior Polo Championship
LAHORE (PR): CrewLogix Technologies secured a crucial 7-5 victory against CTI Shipping on the second day of the 4th Junior Polo Championship, organized by Lahore Garrison Polo Grounds and sponsored by TCL.  The thrilling match, held at Pakistan Park Cavalry Ground, attracted a large number of spectators and families. Among the notable attendees were Club Secretary Major Babar Mehboob Awan, TCL’s Muhammad Owais, and other dignitaries.  In a competitive encounter, Saim Abbas led Crew Logix Technologies with an impressive four goals, while young Diyan Ahmed Butt added three goals to seal the victory. For CTI Shipping, M Mustafa Fahd Khan was the standout performer, scoring three goals, while Muzammil Ahmed and Syed Ayan Salman contributed one goal each. The opening chukker was a tightly contested affair, with both teams displaying remarkable skill and intensity, ending the period locked at 2-2. The second chukker maintained the thrilling momentum as each side added another goal to keep the score level at 3-3. CTI Shipping started the third chukker on a strong note, capitalizing on a 40-yard penalty conversion to take a narrow 4-3 lead.  However, CrewLogix Technologies responded emphatically, launching a stunning comeback with three consecutive goals, surging ahead to 6-4. In the fourth and final chukker, both teams managed to add a goal to their tally, but CrewLogix Technologies maintained their dominance, securing a well-fought 7-5 victory.

GOLF - National 03 Feb, 2025

Rashid D. Habib Golf Tournament to start on February 6 in Karachi
Sports Bulletin ReportKARACHI: The Bank AL Habib’s 14th Rashid D. Habib Memorial National Professional Golf Tournament 2025 will tee off on Thursday, 6th February at the picturesque Karachi Golf Club (KGC). The final round will be played on Sunday, 9th February 2025.More than a hundred top golfers will compete in the Professionals category for one of the most coveted four-day National Competition of the Annual Golf Season. Last year, Ahmad Baig of RPG won the coveted trophy by carding 275, 13 under par, to win the tournament. Muhammad Zubair of KGC was the runner-up by carding 282, 6 under par. Prior to this event, a two-day match for local KGC Professionals, Senior Professionals and KGC Caddies, the 24th edition of Rashid D. Habib Memorial Golf Tournament, is being played on 3rd and 4th February 2025. This Year Bank AL Habib PRO-AM Golf tournament has also been added for the encouragement and collaboration of Professionals with Amateurs to support and develop professional golf at KGC. The total Prize Money of PKR 12 million includes PKR 9.4 M for Best Performers in National Professional Category, PKR 1.95 M for KGC Professionals, Caddies and Senior Pros, as well as the newly added amateur category. Appearance Money for Top professionals has been enhanced to record PKR 1.37 Million. For encouragement of golf this year top three Junior professionals have also been considered for appearance money. The Appearance Money is distributed amongst the top five Professionals including top three Senior Professionals and Junior Professionals, as per PGF current order of merit.The lucky players achieving first hole-in-one will also be rewarded with a Toyota Corolla and a Suzuki Alto in National and Local KGC categories respectively. The prize distribution ceremony will be held on 9th Feb 2025.  
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