Sports Bulletin

Sports Bulletin ReportLAHORE: A captain’s knock by Kathryn Bryce and fine bowling from the bowlers, led by Rachel Slater helped Scotland claim a solid, 58-run victory over Thailand in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 Qualifier at the Lahore City Cricket Association (LCCA) Ground on Sunday. The Scotland skipper made 60, ably supported by Megan McColl’s 57, to help them to 206 all out batting first.Despite a promising start from Thailand in response, only Natthakan Chantham (63) was able to build a big score in the chase, with Slater’s three for nine at the start of the innings proving to be crucial for Kathryn Bryce’s charges. That leaves Scotland with two wins from their first three fixtures with a big clash against Bangladesh up next, while Thailand are still searching for their first win of the tournament.Bryce and McColl provide Scotland a good foundation: Scotland won the toss and elected to bat first but lost Pippa Sproule for one off the bowling of Nattaya Boochatham (2/46).That brought skipper Kathryn Bryce to the crease, she and Abbi Aitken-Drummond started to rebuild before Boochatham picked up her second wicket when she removed Aitken-Drummond for 22.Sarah Bryce joined her sister but quickly departed for five, however a 67-run stand between the elder Bryce and Ailsa Lister got Scotland back on track.Lister became the first of Onnicha Kamchomphu’s three victims, caught by Naruemol Chaiwai for a run-a-ball 38.Bryce followed for 60, bowled by Kampchomphu (3/28), but Megan McColl dug in to marshal the lower order.Even as wickets fell at regular intervals, her 57 from just 60 balls pushed Scotland past 200, before she was the last wicket to fall with nine overs still remaining.Thailand chase stumbles under Scotland pressure: The chase started positively with Boochatham (20) and Chanida Sutthiruang (18) putting on 41 runs for the first wicket.However, Rachel Slater proved difficult to get away from and got early results when she picked up both openers in the same over to get Scotland going.She then bowled Nannapat Koncharoenkai for three, taking her figures to three for nine, and leaving Thailand at 46 for three.Natthakan Chantham and skipper Chaiwai added 25 before the captain was trapped leg before by Abtaha Maqsood, and Scotland were able to chip away regularly despite Chantham’s best efforts.She was eventually bowled out by Maqsood for 63, ending any hopes of a successful chase, with Katherine Fraser sealing victory by having Kampchomphu caught to wrap up the 58-run success.Scores in brief:Scotland v Thailand – LCCA GroundScotland 206 all out in 41 overs (Kathryn Bryce 60, Megan McColl; Thipatcha Putthawong 3/28, Onnicha Kamchomphu 3/34)Thailand 148 all out in 31.3 overs (Natthakan Chantham 63, Nattaya Boochatham 20; Rachel Slater 3/9, Abtaha Maqsood 3/26, Katherine Fraser 3/28)Scotland won by 58 runs 

BIPIN DANIIn the high-octane world of cricket, individuality often shines brightest. For Digvesh Rathi, the young leg-spinner making waves in the IPL, his signature "notebook celebration" has drawn both admiration and criticism. While his skill with the ball is undeniable, his choice of celebration has landed him in hot water with the Indian cricket board on two occasions, sparking a debate about where the line between flair and decorum should be drawn.The Evolution of the Notebook Celebration1. The Initial Controversy : The first instance of Rathi's notorious celebration occurred after he dismissed Priyansh Arya during a match against Punjab Kings. Mimicking the act of jotting down notes, Rathi’s gesture was interpreted as provocative. Although Arya, a personal friend, shrugged it off, the cricketing authorities did not. Rathi was penalized 25% of his match fee, with criticism pouring in from various quarters. Cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar notably remarked, “When you celebrate like this, it implies you didn’t expect to take a wicket. Such behavior borders on arrogance.”2. The Second Incident: Just a few matches later, Rathi repeated his act after claiming the wicket of Naman Dhir. The repeat offense cost him 50% of his match fee and an additional demerit point. The cricket board reiterated its stand against unsportsmanlike conduct, putting the spotlight on Rathi’s actions once again.3. A Theatrical Spin : The most recent chapter in Rathi’s controversial celebrations saw him take it a step further. After dismissing his idol, Sunil Narine, he theatrically bent down to the ground, mimicking the act of signing the grass. According to his coach, Sachin Shukla, this gesture was less of a taunt and more of a symbolic autograph, reflecting a deep respect for the player he idolizes. “It’s more about commemorating his performance,” Shukla explained, adding that Rathi has long maintained a habit of recording his successes.Support from Close Quarters: Despite the growing controversy, Rathi has found steadfast support among those who know him best. Speaking exclusively, Sachin Shukla, his personal coach at Dronacharya Cricket Academy came to his defense: “Yes, the first instance involved some contact with the batter, but it’s important to note that Priyansh Arya is his friend, and there was no animosity. Different players have their own ways of celebrating, and as long as it doesn’t harm anyone, I don’t see an issue with it.”Elaborating further on the notebook celebration done on the ground, the coach said, "Rathi bent down and theatrically signed the grass—more a symbolic autograph than a taunt, perhaps a gesture of respect. After all, Sunil Narine is his idol. His "notebook celebration" likely reflects a long-standing habit of recording his best performances, something he's been doing for years".Rathi’s elder brother, Sunny Rathi, who serves as a constable, also weighed in on the matter. “After his first penalty, we warned him to tone it down. But Digvesh is adamant—he sees himself as an aggressive bowler and insists that his celebrations reflect his mindset. He once told me, ‘If I stop celebrating in my style, I’ll lose my edge. I don’t want to become a defensive player.’”The Man Beyond the Field: Born into a modest family, Digvesh Rathi’s story is one of resilience and ambition. His father, Dharmendra Singh, earns a livelihood working at construction sites, while his mother, Manju Devi, is a homemaker. His younger brother, Nirdosh, shares an interest in cricket, perhaps inspired by Rathi’s own passion and achievements.While the controversies surrounding Rathi’s celebrations continue to divide opinions, they also underscore the fiery personality of a player who is determined to make his mark. For Rathi, every wicket is not just a statistic but a story worth penning down—quite literally. 

Sports Bulletin ReportTAXILA : National Cricket Club Hazro have won the final of the All Pakistan T20 Cricket Tournament. In the final, the tournament's hot favorite team, Al-Faisal Cricket Club Attock, faced a tough and thrilling match and was defeated by 6 runs. Shahzaib from the champion team was declared the Player of the Match.The final of the All Pakistan T20 Cricket Tournament (APL Season 9) was played between Al-Faisal Cricket Club Attock and National Cricket Club Hazro at Attock Cricket Stadium (PCB Attock). Batting first, National Cricket Club scored 179 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in the allotted 20 overs. Shahzaib played a highly responsible innings, scoring 76 runs and remained not out. Abbas scored 35, Nabi Gul made 17, and Shahab contributed 16 runs.From Al-Faisal Cricket Club, Rana Fasih bowled impressively, taking 2 wickets for just 23 runs in his 4 overs. Al-Faisal Cricket Club made a strong attempt to chase the target. Usman's half-century could not turn the game in their favor—he scored 56 runs off just 28 balls. Rana Fasih also contributed 25 runs off 16 balls, but the team could only reach 173 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in 20 overs. Thus, National Cricket Club Hazro won the final by 6 runs and earned the title of champions. Shahzaib from the winning team was declared the best player of the match.At the end of the tournament, the chief guest, Member of National Assembly Sheikh Aftab Ahmed, distributed prizes among the players and officials. The winning team, National Cricket Club, received a cash prize of Rs. 200,000 and a trophy, while the runner-up, Al-Faisal Cricket Club, was awarded Rs. 100,000 and a trophy. In addition, players showing outstanding performance in categories like Man of the Match, Best Bowler, Best Batsman, and Best Fielder received cash prizes of Rs. 10,000 each.

BIPIN DANICricket has often showcased extraordinary sibling rivalries, where brothers compete on opposing teams, turning family bonds into thrilling showdowns on the field. Two of the most notable examples in Indian cricket feature the Pandya and Pathan brothers, both of whom have left indelible marks with their intense yet respectful rivalries. Pandya Brothers: IPL 2025 Showdown: In one of the standout moments of the IPL 2025 season, Krunal Pandya, playing for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), faced off against his younger brother Hardik Pandya, the captain of the Mumbai Indians. The match, held on a lively Monday evening at the Wankhede Stadium, was an emotional affair for the Pandya family and an exhilarating contest for fans. Hardik, in his usual aggressive style, smashed a blistering 42 off just 15 balls, threatening to tilt the match in Mumbai’s favor. However, Krunal stepped up when it mattered most, delivering a stellar bowling performance, claiming four wickets for 45 runs. His heroics helped RCB secure a narrow 12-run victory in a match that could have gone either way. While Krunal’s performance stood out, Hardik’s wicket was not among his dismissals that day. Despite this, the emotions of playing against his brother were evident during the post-match presentation, where Krunal reflected on the experience: "The bond that we have, at the end of the day, we knew only one (Pandya) would win. But the love and affection we have for each other is very natural. He batted well. We won, and I also wanted to win. He also wanted to win.” Pathan Brothers: Iconic IPL Rivalry: Years before the Pandya brothers, another sibling rivalry graced the IPL when Irfan Pathan and Yusuf Pathan found themselves on opposite sides. Known for their contrasting styles, Irfan’s swing bowling posed a challenge to Yusuf’s explosive batting. Their duels were moments of pure cricketing drama, blending competition with mutual respect. Although neither consistently dominated the other, their encounters added unique flavor to the game, showcasing the depth of talent in one family and the joy cricket brings to fans who witness these special moments. Sibling rivalries like those of the Pandya and Pathan brothers add a rare emotional depth to cricket. These clashes remind us that cricket is not just a sport but a celebration of relationships, competition, and shared love for the game. Few spectacles are as compelling as the sight of brothers pushing each other to their limits while never letting their bond falter.

Sports Bulletin ReportDubai (UAE): The highly anticipated launch ceremony of the Global Celebrity League (GCL), a groundbreaking cricket league merging legendary cricketers and renowned celebrities, concluded with grandeur at an exclusive event in Dubai. Hosted by the vibrant and dynamic Shifali Bagga, the event was attended by distinguished dignitaries, celebrated cricketers, and prominent film and television stars from India and Pakistan.The evening commenced on a solemn note with attendees observing a moment of silence in tribute to the late founding chairman of GCL, His Excellency Sheikh Saud Abdullah Al Thani, who passed away last week, honoring his vision and contribution.Highlighting the event were the spectacular jersey and logo reveals of the five participating teams—Pakistan Firefox, Indian Thunders, Afghan Warriors, Bangal Tigers, and Qatar Global—generating immense enthusiasm among the attendees and setting the stage for an exhilarating competition ahead.A major attraction of the ceremony was the official signing of two iconic teams, Pakistan Firefox owned by Mr. Waqas Alvi . Indian Team owner Mr. Sumit Rajpal was represented by Former Indian cricketer Shikhar Dhawan and film stars, Neha Sharma, Arbaaz Khan, and Sohail Khan proudly represented their team, while cricket legends Imran Nazir, Wahab Riaz, and Shahid Afridi championed the Pakistan side. Team owners accompanied their respective stars and celebrities, marking the official beginning of intense cricketing rivalry.President of GCL, Arif Malik, addressed the esteemed gathering, articulating the vision and strategic objectives of the league. He officially announced the league dates, revealing that the much-awaited T10 GCL matches will be held from May 27th to June 4th, 2025, at the renowned Asian Town Cricket Stadium in Doha, Qatar. The highlight fixture, the opening clash between cricketing giants India and Pakistan, will immediately follow a grand opening ceremony. With that being said, Naghma khan League Director of GCL has made this event a huge success through hard work and diligence. Her goal was always to ensure a seamless collaboration of all the teams and make this cricket league reach heights of success.Shikhar Dhawan and Wahab Riaz delivered passionate speeches, expressing their excitement and enthusiasm for the upcoming matches in Doha, Qatar, and promising a highly entertaining and competitive league.Global Celebrity League's brand ambassador, cricketing sensation Shahid Afridi, virtually joined the event via video call, engaging the audience with a promise of thrilling cricket action and friendly competition, particularly highlighting the anticipated India-Pakistan encounters. Afridi's lively interaction with Indian cricketer Shikhar Dhawan and other celebrities amplified the excitement. 

Sports Bulletin ReportLahore: The Pakistan Cricket Board has announced the match officials for HBL Pakistan Super League X, scheduled to take place across four venues – Karachi, Lahore, Multan and Rawalpindi from 11 April to 18 May. A total of 13 umpires and seven match referees will be involved in 30 matches, while the match officials for the Qualifier, two eliminators and final, will be announced in due course.Elite Panel of ICC Umpires – Ahsan Raza, Paul Reiffel and Kumar Dharmasena are among the 13 umpires officiating in the six-team tournament. Also included are Alex Wharf and Chris Brown. From Pakistan, Aleem Dar, Asif Yaqoob, Faisal Khan Aafreedi, Rashid Riaz Waqar are part of the PCB International Panel of Umpires.Abdul Moqeet, Nasir Hussain, Tariq Rasheed and Zulfiqar Jan – part of PCB Elite Panel of Umpires will also be officiating matches during this edition of the HBL PSL. Among the match referees, ICC Elite Panel of Match Referee Ranjan Madugalle will officiate matches alongside his fellow Sri Lankan Roshan Mahanama. Also serving as match referees are Ali Naqvi and Muhammad Javed Malik – both from the PCB International Panel of Match Referees. Iftikhar Ahmed, Iqbal Sheikh and Nadeem Arshad will also officiate during the tournament.

Sports Bulletin ReportDubai (UAE): The International Cricket Council (ICC) today announced the latest players in contention to win the ICC Men’s and Women’s Player of the Month awards following a blockbuster month of action in March. Two stars of New Zealand’s busy month feature on the ICC Men’s Player of the Month shortlist alongside a key figure in India’s trophy-winning campaign at the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025.Shreyas Iyer was in formidable form in the latter stages of India’s run to a record-breaking third ICC Men’s Champions Trophy, and seeks to win his first ICC Men’s Player of the Month award since February 2022 as a result. On the opposing side in a memorable final was New Zealand’s Rachin Ravindra, also nominated after another stellar ICC event where he was crowned the Player of the Tournament. Completing the lineup is his compatriot Jacob Duffy, the pacer earning a place atop the ICC Men’s T20I Bowling Rankings following a fruitful series in the victory over Pakistan.Jacob Duffy (NZ): With a spot at the summit of the ICC Men’s T20I Bowling Rankings to his name, Duffy was rewarded for a brilliant March which saw him take 13 wickets at an impressive average of just 8.38 in the five-match T20I series against Pakistan. Among a string of consistent returns, his standout performances came with four-wicket hauls in Christchurch (four for 14) and Mount Maunganui (four for 20), and sees him land his maiden nomination for the Player of the Month crown.Shreyas Iyer (IND): Notching 172 runs at an average of 57.33 in the final three matches of the competition, Shreyas was a shining light for India at the business end of their Champions Trophy-winning campaign. A match-winning 79 in the final group stage match against New Zealand preceded vital scores of 45 and 48 in the semi-final and final, providing sufficient support for India to successfully chase down challenging totals under the lights in Dubai and lift their third Champions Trophy.Rachin Ravindra (NZ): The Blackcaps talismanic batter seeks to win his second Player of the Month award after inspiring the Champions Trophy finalists with stirring performances with bat and ball during March’s contests. With 151 runs and three wickets to his name only telling part of the story, the Player of the Tournament registered a memorable 108 in the semi-final win over South Africa in Lahore before his economical bowling and dazzling fielding in the blockbuster finale in Dubai almost turned the tables in New Zealand’s favour.Chetnaa Prasad (USA): The 19-year-old was a driving force as the USA stormed to Americas Qualifier success in March, first by taking four wickets against Brazil and more importantly, recording her best international figures of four for 5 and winning the Player of the Match prize as they overcame Canada in the winner-takes-all matchup on the final day in Buenos Aires.Annabel Sutherland (AUS): The two-time ICC Women’s Player of the Month has enjoyed an extended period of excellence in recent times, and while her previous wins came thanks to her batting brilliance, in March it was her bowling prowess that stole the headlines. Climbing to a career best rating of 736 in the Women’s T20I Bowling Rankings in the process, the 23-year-old lit up the series against New Zealand with four wickets for 8 runs in the second match and four for 35 in the third and final encounter to secure the series sweep over their rivals.Georgia Voll (AUS): Having made her international debut less than six months ago, Voll is already making a name for herself, and in March the 21-year-old struck two brisk half-centuries in Australia’s 3-0 T20I series win over New Zealand. Chasing down 138 for victory in double quick time in the Auckland opener, Voll smashed her maiden fifty in T20Is in just 30 balls at the top of the order. 36 More runs followed in Mount Maunganui before she hit 75 in 57 balls in the third and final match, helping Australia seal the whitewash with an eight-run win in Wellington.

Sports Bulletin ReportMount Maunganui (New Zealand): New Zealand beat Pakistan by 43 runs in the third ODI at the Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui on Saturday to take the series 3-0.After a delayed start due to wet outfield reduced the game to 42 overs per side, Pakistan won the toss and put New Zealand in to bat. The hosts scored 264 for eight in their 42 overs, courtesy half centuries from captain Michael Bracewell (59, 40b, 1x4, 6x6s) and Rhys Mariu (58, 61b, 6x4s, 2x6s). Daryl Mitchell also scored a 53-ball 43 comprising of three fours and a six. For Pakistan, left-arm pacer Akif Javed grabbed four wickets for 62 runs in eight overs. Naseem Shah dismissed two batters.In turn, Pakistan were dismissed for 221 in 40 overs, with Babar Azam (50, 58b, 4x4s, 1x6) top-scoring for the team. For New Zealand, Ben Sears bagged five wickets for 34 in his nine overs.Scores in brief:New Zealand 264-8, 42 overs (Michael Bracewell 59, Rhys Mariu 58, Daryl Mitchell 43, Henry Nicholls 31, Tim Seifert 26; Akif Javed 4-62, Naseem Shah 2-54)Pakistan 221 all out, 40 overs (Babar Azam 50, Mohammad Rizwan 37, Tayyab Tahir 33, Abdullah Shafique 33; Ben Sears 5-34, Jacob Duffy 2-40)Player of the match – Michael BracewellPlayer of the series - Ben Sears (New Zealand)  

Sports Bulletin ReportTauranga (New Zealand): Pakistan team batter Imam-ul-Haq sustained a mild facial injury during the batting, caused by an accidental throw from a New Zealand fielder. He was immediately attended by medical team and shifted to Tauranga Hospital for a detailed assessment.A CT scan of his head and face was conducted and reported as normal. Based on clinical evaluation, he has been diagnosed with a mild concussion. Imam is feeling better now and remains in stable condition. The specialists at Tauranga Hospital have advised a two-week rest from all sporting activities. He has also been declared fit for air travel. 

Sports Bulletin ReportLAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board announced that for the first time in HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) history, fans will be able to enjoy full-match Urdu commentary throughout the tournament. The HBL PSL X is all set to take place in four cities – Lahore, Karachi, Multan and Rawalpindi from 11 April to 18 May.Fans can now choose to tune into live broadcasts in Urdu, allowing them to experience the action and excitement of the league matches in Pakistan’s national language. This step is set to deepen engagement with millions of cricket fans and enhance their experience.HBL PSL Chief Executive Officer Salman Naseer: “This is a landmark moment for the HBL PSL and its ever-growing fanbase. Cricket is a unifying force in Pakistan and by offering commentary in Urdu for a full game, we are bringing the excitement and energy of the HBL PSL closer to the hearts of fans in every corner of the country. The introduction of the separate Urdu commentary feed is something that has been eagerly anticipated and we are excited to deliver it. This move not only strengthens our connection with the community but also ensures that the excitement of HBL PSL is more accessible to a wider audience.”