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MARTIAL ARTS - karate 22 Mar, 2026
Islamabad (PR): Grand Master Shihan Raja Khalid Mahmood Janjua has become the first Pakistani-American martial artist to receive the Hall of Fame Award for the fourth time in the United States,Raja Khalid Mahmood Janjua is a prominent Pakistani martial arts expert, coach, and the first Pakistani Kusion Karate Master to be inducted into the US Martial Arts Hall of Fame.According to information received from the United States of America, on March 21, 2026, in Costa Mesa, California, United States, Raja Khalid received the honor of receiving the USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame.Remember that this is not just an award but a journey of a lifetime, reflecting the spirit of true Kusion for more than four decades.Raja Khalid Mahmood Janjua, Pakistan's prominent martial arts expert, coach, and the first Pakistani Kyokushin Karate Master, while speaking on the occasion said, "From Pakistan to the global stage, I am proudly carrying the legacy of my great Rajput."He said, "This is a matter of pride for my nation, my country, Pakistan, it is truly a great honor," but I want to make it clear that "I did not achieve this alone."He said, "This honor came with the grace and blessings of Allah Almighty, the prayers of my beloved parents, teachers, who were my strength, especially the prayers of my parents, family, who were like a shield behind me."He said that from the first day of my martial arts till today, my guardian parents, family and teachers, have been my supporters and well-wishers all over the world.He added, "This award is as much yours as it is mine." This recognition, responsibility, mission is more than a legacy. He concluded that Qiqsion is not just a style, "it is a way of life", I will continue to teach until my last breath.It should be remembered that this award was received in 1980 by a teacher who is an American citizen, the award was received by Grand Master Shihyan Raja Khalid Mahmood Janjua for the fourth time in the America Hall of Fame
PCB announces revised schedule for HBL PSL 11
Lahore (Sports News):The Pakistan Cricket Board has announced revised schedule for 11th edition of the HBL PSL after austerity measures have been adopted in consultation with the Government of Pakistan, and in line with the officially announced national austerity and resource conservation measures. The number of host venues for HBL PSL 11 has been streamlined from six to two. All matches will now be staged in Lahore and Karachi. In the updated schedule 44 matches will be taking place in a space of 39 days with Lahore and Karachi each hosting 22 matches. The opening match between Hyderabad Kingsmen and Lahore Qalandars remains intact, while Lahore will also see Eliminator 1, 2 and the final. Qualifier will be played in Karachi.With the tournament temporarily shifting to a watch-from-home model, HBL PSL will introduce enhanced broadcast and production features aimed at delivering an even stronger viewing experience for fans across Pakistan and around the world. The league remains confident that the passion of its audience, combined with innovation in coverage, will make this edition one of the most widely watched in its history.While it is important to prioritise national stability, the crowds gracing the stadia will be sorely missed. It was estimated that with an average of 30,000 spectators and associated support staff travelling daily for over more than a month would place significant strain on energy resources. By limiting the tournament to two cities, the HBL PSL is also reducing the extensive operational arrangements including transport, and utility overheads that a six-city event demands.HBL PSL remains committed to delivering high-quality cricket while aligning with national priorities. The league will move forward with the same unity, discipline, and excellence that have made it a defining symbol of Pakistan’s sporting strength.
PSL 11: Pindi back Pakistan Cricket Board decision regarding league
Rawalpindi (Abdul Jabbar Faisal):Pindiz have expressed their full support for the HBL Pakistan Super League’s decision to stage matches exclusively in Lahore and Karachi, citing the ongoing fuel crisis and the need for austerity measures across the country.While the franchise was eagerly anticipating the opportunity to play in front of its passionate home crowd in Rawalpindi, the management acknowledged that the austerity measures being taken in consideration - current situation demands collective responsibility and unity.Speaking on the matter, Pindiz team owner, Ahsan Tahir said, “Sabse Pehle Pakistan - We were looking forward to playing in front of our home fans, to give the people of Pindi a home team to support in their own stadium. However, we fully recognize that this is the need of the hour. As a franchise, we stand firmly behind the HBL PSL and its efforts to ensure the smooth and successful conduct of the tournament under these circumstances.”Pindiz reaffirmed their commitment to the league and emphasized the importance of prioritizing national interest above all. The franchise remains confident that, with collective support, this edition of the HBL PSL will continue to deliver high-quality cricket and unite fans across the country.
PSL 11: Lahore Qalandars sign Australian all‑Rounder Daniel Sams
Islamabad (Sports News): Lahore: Lahore Qalandars confirms that Australian all‑rounder Daniel Sams will join the squad as the replacement for Sri Lanka captain Dasun Shanaka for the full season.Shanaka, who was acquired by Lahore Qalandars at the PSL auction, has pulled out ahead of the PSL due to personal reasons and confirmed his unavailability.In response, Lahore Qalandars acted swiftly to secure Sams, a proven T20 match-winner, ensuring the team remains strong and competitive ahead of the season. Known for his dynamic T20 game, Sams boasts a career batting strike rate of over 150 and has taken 262 wickets in 216 T20 matches at an average of 24.70, reflecting his skill in controlling the action with his left‑arm seam.Sameen Rana, Owner, Lahore Qalandars: “We are thrilled to welcome Daniel Sams to the Lahore Qalandars family. His all-round skills, match-winning ability, and dynamic T20 experience will add tremendous firepower to our lineup this season. He is a proven game-changer who can perform with both bat and ball, bringing energy and skill to the team on and off the field.”
FOOTBALL - FIFA News 21 Mar, 2026
Islamabad (Sports Desk): The Official FIFA World Cup 2026™ Album roll-out begins with the global release of Lighter by Jelly Roll and Carín León, produced by Cirkut, via Def Jam Recordings. Lighter marks the first chapter of a groundbreaking album created for the most inclusive FIFA World Cup™ in history and is now live across all major streaming services.A collaboration between three defining artists from the tournament’s host nations – Jelly Roll (United States), Carín León (Mexico) and Cirkut (Canada), the 2026 GRAMMY® Award Winner for Producer of the Year, Non-Classical – Lighter brings together the three host countries through one collaborative sound. Blending Jelly Roll’s country roots with Carín León’s regional Mexican influence, the track bridges genres, reflecting the shared cultural energy of North America and the global passion for the game.“The FIFA World Cup is one of the rare moments when the entire world moves to the same rhythm,” said FIFA President Gianni Infantino. “The Official FIFA World Cup 2026 Album is not simply a musical accompaniment to the tournament; it’s a statement about where the global game is going. By bringing together artists whose voices resonate across continents, we are creating something that mirrors the scale, ambition and cultural impact of this historic competition. Lighter marks the beginning of that journey. It is a powerful expression of resilience, energy and joy – a song that will connect with fans everywhere and become part of the atmosphere in stadiums, fan celebrations and communities around the world throughout the tournament.”Reflecting on the track and collaboration, Jelly Roll shares: “Music has a way of reaching people in places you’d never expect, and the way this song came together with Carín León and Cirkut is proof of that. I’ve had a whole lot of respect for both of them for a long time, so getting to come together on this record has been real special. Grateful to be able to share it with folks all over the world.”“Collaborating with an artist like Jelly Roll, and doing so for nothing less than the biggest sporting event in the world, is something that fills me with pride,” adds Carín León. “As a Mexican, I’m incredibly excited to be part of this project and to bring a piece of our music and culture to so many corners of the world. Very grateful for the opportunity and happy to share what we love most: music from the soul.”On shaping the record, Cirkut notes: “Working with Jelly Roll and Carín León on the first record of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ Album was a real honor. We wanted to create something that carries the sound and soul of the host countries, and hits in a way that connects with fans around the world.”
FOOTBALL - FIFA News 20 Mar, 2026
Islamabad (Sports Desk): Following the proposal made by the Palestinian Football Association (PFA) at the 74th FIFA Congress and the subsequent decision of the FIFA Council to mandate the FIFA Disciplinary Committee to investigate the alleged offence of discrimination raised by the PFA, the FIFA Disciplinary Committee has decided that the Israel Football Association (IFA) has committed multiple breaches of its obligations as a FIFA Member Association.As a consequence, the FIFA Disciplinary Committee has imposed the following sanctions on the IFA for breaches of articles 13 (Offensive behaviour and violations of the principles of fair play) and 15 (Discrimination and racist abuse) of the FIFA Disciplinary Code (FDC):a) The IFA is ordered to pay a fine to the amount of CHF 150,000, subject to lit. c) below.b) The IFA is issued with a warning regarding its conduct.c) The IFA is ordered to implement a prevention plan in accordance with the following directives:The Israel Football Association is ordered to display in its next three (3) A-level FIFA competition matches at home a significant and highly visible banner with the words “Football Unites the World – No to Discrimination” alongside the Israel Football Association’s logo. The size, layout, and positioning of the banner in the stadium shall be submitted by the Israel Football Association to FIFA at the latest fifteen (15) days before each match for approval.The Israel Football Association shall, within sixty (60) days of the notification of the present decision, invest one third (1/3) of the fine due as per point a) above towards the implementation of a comprehensive plan to ensure action against discrimination and to prevent repeated incidents, in compliance with art. 15 par. 7 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code. The plan shall be approved by FIFA and shall focus on the following areas: reforms, protocols, monitoring, and educational campaigns in stadiums and on official channels for an entire season. The remainder of the fine is to be paid within 30 days of notification of the decision.The Committee reaffirms that while its mandate is confined to the application of FIFA’s internal regulatory framework, it cannot remain indifferent to the broader human context in which football operates. The sport must remain a platform for peace, dialogue, and mutual respect. Its global reach and unifying power carry with them a responsibility to uphold the values of dignity, equality, and humanity—especially in times of conflict and division.
HBL PSL ‘Infinity’ Trophy tour reaches Lahore
Sports NewsLAHORE: The HBL Pakistan Super League Trophy ‘Infinity’ made a memorable trip across the country visiting a number of scenic destinations and it reached Lahore on Thursday. The artfully designed trophy by Hanif Jewelers is a product of the hard work of 18 master artisans and was completed in 2,600 hours.The trophy, which will be pursued by eight teams from 26 March onwards, was unveiled on Wednesday, 11 March at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi in presence of PSL Chief Executive Officer Salman Naseer, franchise and title sponsor HBL representatives.After undertaking its journey from Quaid’s mausoleum, the Infinity was taken to Empress Market, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Mereweather Tower, Lyari and Sea view in Karachi followed by Makli Necropolis, Shah Jahan Mosque and Hyderabad Cricket Stadium in Hyderabad. It then made the next stop in Islamabad, where it was taken to the historic Faisal Mosque, Pakistan Monument and the shared home turf of Islamabad United and Rawalpindiz, the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.The scenic beauty and stunning views of Pakistan’s northern areas were captured during Infinity’s tour to Skardu where fans witnessed it at the Khaplu Fort, Katpana Desert, Upper Kachura Lake, Keris Suspension Bridge and Ghawari.The trophy made a stop at the Imran Khan Cricket Stadium and the vintage Sethi Mohalla in Peshawar before being driven back to Lahore, where the HBL PSL 11 action is set to begin in a week’s time. In Lahore, it was taken to the iconic Lahore fort, Minar-e-Pakistan and Badshahi Mosque.The Infinity is also set to make trips to Quetta and Multan during the tournament capturing imaginations of the HBL PSL fans in those destinations. It will also make trips to all HBL PSL venues on various match days.It is worth noting that the specially crafted Infinity trophy has eight emerald-cut Gemstones at its base representing the colours of all HBL PSL franchises. A Crescent and Star at the top of the trophy add more to its sublime beauty, while it is adorned with 1,600 Gemstones, depicting masterful craftmanship and creativity by Hanif Jewelers.
Billie Jean King Cup Asia/Oceania Qualifiers: Pakistan Qualify for Top-8
Billie Jean King Cup Asia/Oceania Qualifiers: Pakistani Girls Qualify for Top-8Islamabad (Staff Report): Pakistan junior girls’ tennis team advanced to the Top-8 of the Junior Billie Jean King Cup Asia/Oceania Qualifying event going on in Colombo, Sri Lanka.According to the Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF), Pakistani girls were placed in Group A alongside Singapore and Macau, as Pakistan lost their opening tie against Singapore but made a strong comeback by defeating Macau 2-1 to secure qualification for the quarterfinal stage.First singles: Hajra Sohail lost to Emma Ieong 0-6, 3-6Second singles: Zunaisha Noor beat Hong Tai Woo 6-0, 6-4Doubles Zunaisha Noor / Hajra Sohail beat Emma / Hong Tai 7-6(2), 6-3The Pakistan team is consist of Sara Mansoor (Captain), Romaisa Malik, Hajra Sohail and Zunaisha Noor (Players).
TABLE TENNIS - Int News 19 Mar, 2026
Islamabad (Sports News): The International Table Tennis Federation announced the creation of the ITTF Doubles World Cup, a landmark new competition approved by the ITTF Executive Board that will bring Men's Doubles, Women's Doubles and Mixed Doubles together on the world stage. The event will take place in 2027. The announcement means that every LA28 Olympic table tennis event now has an equivalent on the World Cup stage: the ITTF Men's and Women’s World Cup covering Singles, the ITTF Mixed Team World Cup, and now the ITTF Doubles World Cup spanning Men's Doubles, Women's Doubles and Mixed Doubles. At Los Angeles 2028, Men's Doubles and Women's Doubles will return to the Olympic programme for the first time since Athens 2004, joining Mixed Doubles, introduced at Tokyo 2020, to complete a full Doubles lineup. The ITTF Doubles World Cup is the sport's new premier doubles competition, giving the world's best doubles players a World Cup stage to call their own. "Doubles is returning to the Olympic Games, and the ITTF Doubles World Cup is how we rise to meet that moment, giving the world's best doubles players the World Cup stage they deserve, and building the pathway to Los Angeles. In our centenary year, we are not just celebrating 100 years of table tennis. We are building the next 100," commented Petra Sörling, ITTF President and IOC MemberThe momentum behind doubles table tennis has never been stronger. At the ITTF World Table Tennis Championships Finals 2025, the doubles events delivered some of the most memorable moments of the year. Wang Chuqin and Sun Yingsha sent Chinese fans into ecstasy by claiming Mixed Doubles gold for the third consecutive time, cementing their status as the greatest doubles partnership of their generation. In Men's Doubles, Japan's Shunsuke Togami and Hiroto Shinozuka ended a 64-year wait for a world title in a five-game thriller. In Women's Doubles, Wang Manyu and Kuai Man claimed the title on their very first World Championships appearance as a pair. The stories kept coming in 2026. At WTT Singapore Smash, Alexis and Félix Lebrun became the first French players to win a Grand Smash title across any discipline, claiming Men's Doubles honours and rising to World No.1. On the same courts, Brazil's Hugo Calderano and Bruna Takahashi made history of their own, becoming the first players from the Americas to claim Mixed Doubles honours at this level. These are the stories that a Doubles World Cup was made for. The announcement comes during ITTF's centenary year, marking 100 years since the federation was founded. As the sport reflects on a century of history, the ITTF Doubles World Cup is a commitment to the future of table tennis. The event joins a World Cup calendar that has grown significantly in recent years. The Men's and Women's World Cup returned in 2024 and has delivered two successful editions, while the Mixed Team World Cup launched in 2023.The creation of the ITTF Doubles World Cup was approved by the Executive Board to provide more playing opportunities and a qualification pathway for doubles players. Further information on the host, dates and competition format will be confirmed in due course.
ODI Ranking: Salman Agha earns career-best, Mehidy returns to top 10
Abdullah AsjadISLAMABAD: Pakistani all-rounder, Salman Ali Agha has surged to a career-best ninth position in the ICC Men’s ODI batting rankings, while Bangladesh captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz has returned to the top 10 among bowlers in the latest weekly update on Wednesday.Salman’s fluent knocks of 64 and 106 in the second and third ODIs at Mirpur have powered his rise from 18th to joint-ninth with India’s K.L. Rahul. Mehidy’s hauls of three for 29 and two for 34 in the first two matches have helped him gallop nine places to seventh position.Salman and Mehidy have also progressed in the all-rounders’ list, Salman up to joint-10th from seventh and Mehidy jumping two slots to second in the list led by Azmatullah Omarzai of Afghanistan.Meanwhile, Bangladesh’s Tanzid Hasan has also made a significant leap, jumping 31 places to 55th after registering his maiden ODI century in the series decider, as the hosts sealed a 2-1 victory. Towhid Hridoy (up two places to 32nd) and Litton Das (up 10 places to 82nd) are other Bangladesh batters to gain.Bangladesh fast bowler Taskin Ahmed’s haul of four for 49 in the third match has lifted him from 40th to 28th position even as Mustafizur Rahman (up 13 places to 47th) and Nahid Rana (up 65 places to 98th) have also made notable progress.Pakistan fast bowlers Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf have inched up one slot each to 17th and 19th positions, respectively. Shaheen grabbed four wickets in three matches and Haris six in two. Leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed is the only Pakistan bowler ahead of the pair, in 13th position.In the ICC Men’s T20I Player Rankings, New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner’s figures of 4-0-8-1 and 3-0-19-2 in the first two T20Is against South Africa have enabled him to move up from 24th to 13th in the bowling rankings.Fast bowler Lockie Ferguson is another New Zealander to progress, his haul of three for 16 in the second match in Hamilton lifting him from 69th to 51st position while South Africa fast bowler Ottneil Baartman’s three wickets in two matches see him go from 96th to 73rd.New Zealand’s left-handed opener Devon Conway has moved up to 70th after his knock of 60 in the second match.
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