Sports Bulletin

Players from Russia, Uzbekistan, Thailand, Iraq, Iran, Jordan, Philippines to participate in LeagueSports Bulletin ReportMumbai (India): It’s almost time for India to Handball as the inaugural edition of the Premier Handball League (PHL) inches closure with the conclusion of its auction process late on Sunday. A total of 116 players including International, India Internationals, and Domestic Handball talent were up for selection by six franchises namely Delhi Panzers, Garvit Gujarat, Golden Eagles Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra Ironmen, Rajasthan Team (yet to be named) and Telugu Talons.The auctions started with the category of foreign players, the international players represented the Asian Handball Federation amongst other federations and all 18 International players were picked up by the teams. Each team was allowed to only select one foreign right-back, left-back and goalkeeper respectively. In terms of the biggest foreign imports, Telugu Talons went for the services of Andrei Igorevich Nedbailo (Goalkeeper) from Russia – a six-time Russian champion. Garvit Gujarat picked up Tuliboev Mukhtor (Right Back) from Uzbekistan, the 24-year-old is known for his exploits with the Uzbek team at the Interamnia World Cup wherein they clinched gold.Golden Eagles Uttar Pradesh also made sure they didn’t fall short and went all out to secure the services of Iran’s Omid Reza (Goal Keeper), who has represented his country in the IHF Handball World Cup in the last two World Cup editions. On the other hand, Maharashtra Ironmen secured the services of Iran’s Right Back Jalal Kiani. Kiani is a silver medallist with the national team at the Asian Games. Delhi Panzers went for the 20-year-old Artem Martynov (Right Back) from Russia, a 2019 Russian Handball Championship gold medallist. Lastly, it was the Rajasthan Team (yet to be named) who selected the services of Iraq’s left-back Baderaladeen Naser. The second category was reserved for Indian star players and 42 players were up for selection by the franchises. Under this category, each team was allowed to pick only one player for each of the seven positions i.e. Right Back, Left Back, Centre Back, Right Wing, Left Wing and Pivot. Amongst the top Indian buys, Telugu Talons went for Raghu Kumara (Pivot) a four-time national champion, Garvit Gujarat secured Harender Singh Nain (Right Back) as their star Indian player, a three-time national champion and a two-time Gold medallist at the Federation Cup Tournaments and Golden Eagles Uttar Pradesh selected Bhushan Shinde (Right Wing) as their most valuable Indian asset for the 2 / 2 league.For Maharashtra Ironmen, winger Ankit Kumar – a member of Gold Medal Winning Indian Squads for the IHF Trophy- in 2016 & 2018 and a Silver medallist at the 2019 South Asian Games was the most valuable player. Delhi Panzers went for Pivot Mintu Sardar again a three-time national champion and lastly, it was Rajasthan who selected Robin Singh (Left Back) – a four-time national champion as their most valuable Indian star player. The final category of the day was called Role Players and 56 domestic Indian players were a part of the same. 42 out of the 56 were picked. Telugu Talons’ most valuable in this category was Rahul Nain (Pivot), Garvit Gujarat went with Right Back – Surender Kumar, and Golden Eagles selected Sanchit Gupta (Right Wing) and Mohit Punia (Right Back) joined Maharashtra Ironmen. Delhi Panzers went with youth and picked up the 20-year-old Pivot Deepak and lastly, Rajasthan secured Mohit Ghanghas (Left Back) as their biggest player in the Role Players category. Manu Agrawal, CEO of Bluesport Entertainment Private Limited said:“It was an exhilarating experience. We have been working on solidifying the structure of the Premier Handball League for a while. A successful auction process has taken us a step closer to D-Day. I would like to thank all the franchise owners, the South Asian Handball Federation and Handball Association India for making the auctions a huge success. Being the first edition, it took a lot of research by the franchises to select the best 17 for their team but this also makes the inaugural season even more exciting as a lot of unknown elements will be at play when they finally get onto the field.”The Premier Handball League (PHL), is sanctioned by the South Asian Handball Federation and affiliated with the Asian Handball Federation (AHF). The inaugural season of the Premier Handball League is set to kick off on June 8 and run until June 25, 2023.

Abdul Jabbar Faisal ISLAMABAD: The 6-day training camp for visually impaired women and girls concluded here at Margzar cricket ground on Monday that was organized by Australian High Commission to Pakistan in collaboration with the Pakistan Blind Cricket Council (PBCC) and Serena Hotels. Australian High Commissioner Neil Hawkins said: “Australia’s support aims to provide more women and girls with disabilities the opportunities to compete and demonstrate their ability, while promoting inclusion in sport. We hope to break gender stereotypes and negative perceptions associated with people with disabilities through our support of this initiative. Australia and Pakistan share a passion for cricket, so we are happy to support the Pakistan Blind Cricket Council’s efforts to bring women and girls living with disabilities into the sport,”. Chairman PBCC Syed Sultan Shah said: “Blind Cricket is a sport that has gained popularity in recent years for its unique approach to inclusivity. It provides an opportunity for people with visual impairments to compete at a high level, develop their skills and confidence, and become people of vision, both on and off the field. I hope that this initiative will inspire more people with disabilities to participate in sports and lead fulfilling lives.” It is pertinent to mention here that the two blind factory workers invented blind cricket in Melbourne, Australia, in 1922 when they improvised the game using a tin can containing rocks. A few years later, in 1928, the first sports ground and clubhouse for blind cricket was built at Kooyong in Melbourne.

Dubai (UAE): Sports and online gaming exchange has gained massive popularity since enthusiasts began discovering easier and quicker ways to indulge in the thrill of wagering responsibly. Popular Bollywood celebrity actress Jacqueline Fernandez has now hopped onto the brand ambassador bandwagon for the well known and widely trusted brand: FairPlay. Of Sri Lankan origin, Jacqueline has predominantly worked in Hindi films and is now a household name with a staggering fan following among Bollywood fanatics. FairPlay was founded in 2019 and provides a sports and gaming exchange for cricket and 30 other premium sports. It is known for regularly offering the highest odds in the market, ensuring value to users. Research confirms FairPlay as the most trusted sports and gaming exchange operating in India. Jacqueline’s contagious energy and her fun loving personality make her the perfect face for a brand like FairPlay. A FairPlay spokesperson said, “we’re excited to have Jacqueline onboard. Team FairPlay believes that this association will bring out the best in both parties and we look forward to a fruitful partnership with Jacqueline.” Having garnered the love of millions in her over a decade long career in Bollywood, Jacqueline has always been known and loved for her contagious zeal and enthusiasm. The adrenaline rush that pumps through a gamer in a casino or an exciting sports match is well represented by Jacqueline’s fun spirited personality. “I’m excited to represent FairPlay” Jacqueline said. “I believe that responsible gaming can be thrilling and exciting to say the least and FairPlay is the best in the game!” Jacqueline has since her debut made her mark in the industry. The gaming world is one where the possibilities are endless and needless to say, thrilling. Jacqueline brings to the brand a face that suits the personality that both her and FairPlay can carry individually and as a team. A leading Bollywood actress and a leader in the online gaming industry- FairPlay is definitely a partnership to watch out for (PR).

Sports Desk ISLAMABAD: Over the years, India has achieved massive success in the field of sports. One of the key reasons behind it is the emergence of various leagues and tournaments in the country that has allowed many players to get the right exposure and showcase their talent on a global stage. The leagues have unearthed many talented players in India. An MBA graduate, Madhukar Shree has been in the field of sports management for over a decade and has been fortunate enough to have worked closely with many of the leagues and players not only in the Indian subcontinent but globally. Apart from working and heading a few teams and IPs across various sports, including cricket, kho kho, badminton, tennis, football etc. Madhukar has closely worked with many world-class athletes and investors to explore, evaluate and execute investments across leagues and new IPs. Aiming to use his experience, learnings, network and knowledge to guide investors, so that they invest smartly in the right direction to achieve their goals and help the entire sporting ecosystem in the country to scale new heights. "Sports in India have seen massive growth in the last two decades, and the emergence of different leagues and tournaments in the country plus globally has certainly played a big role in it. The leagues have produced many star players across India in different sports, and we need to increase the number of leagues to unearth more talents in the country. The only way to do that is to bring more investment in the sporting ecosystem of India," commented Madhukar Shree. He added, "I have been working with many leagues, companies and athletes across India and globally. In my career, I have learned a lot about the sporting ecosystem and will like to use my knowledge to contribute to the growth of different sports in India. I want to guide different brands and investors to explore the opportunities in sports in India. I aim to help them evaluate and invest in the right products in the country, which aligns with their goals and vision for sports in India." Madhukar Shree is also excited about the opportunities that lie ahead and believes that Indian sports still have the potential to grow at a rapid pace.

KARACHI: Glenn Cundari, head coach of International Special Olympic (ISO) Canada, has said that children with mental and physical disabilities have additional characteristics, they are differently talented, and they are more interested in sports and music. He said that there is immense talent among special children in Pakistan and their abilities are in no way less than other special children in the world. He expressed these thoughts on the occasion of a visit to SCINOSA, a school for special children in Karachi, along with Taha Tahir, National Director of Special Olympics Pakistan, and Farkhunda Jabeen, Sports Director. Rizwana Khanum, the principal of the school, informed the detail about the facilities available for special children including football, table tennis, basketball and tennis, along with other sports and educational activities, in terms of computer, painting, art and craft; said that the school not only pays attention to their care but also organizes various events for their entertainment as well as an annual sports day and sports equipment and coaching services are also available for special players at the school. Glenn Cundari said, “Yes, I am very happy to see the activities of special children in the school and management of Scinosa is busy day and night in the services of special children in the spirit of service to humanity. I salute their spirit, he added. Glenn Cundari also played table tennis, basketball, and football with special children on this occasion. (Press Release)

Sports Bulletin Report KARACHI: Glenn Cundari, head coach of International Special Olympics Canada, arrived in Karachi on a one-week visit where he would provide further training to Pakistani coaches for the Special Olympics World Games. Upon his arrival in Karachi, the chairperson of Special Olympics Pakistan, Ronak Lakhani, and other officials welcomed Glenn Cundari. It should be noted that in connection with the preparations for the Special Olympic World Games to be held in Berlin, Germany this year from June 17 to 25, the training camp of the national players was organized at Karachi Port Trust (KPT) Sports Complex. Head coach Glenn Cundari visited the camp along with Ronak Lakhani and reviewed the performance of the coaches and players. On this occasion, Glenn Cundari said that he was very happy to come to Pakistan. “I am enjoying being hosted here as Pakistan is known all over the world for its place in world sports.” “The coaching seminar will prove to be very useful for the Pakistani coaches through which the coaches will be able to provide the best training and guidance to the special athletes in the future. And in light of this, the performance of Pakistan's special athletes will continue to improve, he added. Glenn Cundari further said that special athletes are an inspiration for us. It is hoped that these specials will perform well for their country in the World Games. Ronak Lakhani said that the arrival of Glenn to Pakistan is an honour for us. A two-day coaching seminar is being organized for Pakistani coaches of different sports of Special Olympics in a local hotel in Karachi, in which head coach Glenn Curdin will teach the methods of different sports of Special Olympics. She said that the coaching seminar will not only give opportunities to our local coaches to train under the supervision of international coaches in their own country, but it will also provide them exposure at the international level.

Sports Report Dubai (UAE): Marriott Bonvoy, the award-winning travel program from Marriott International, has announced it is offering Marriott Bonvoy members multiple opportunities to experience unforgettable moments with Manchester United. Launching, together with Marriott Hotels, members can bid on opportunities for exclusive access including an overnight stay in Old Trafford Stadium, access to visit the pitch, and a chance to travel to Barcelona with the team, all through the Marriott Bonvoy Moments platform for the remainder of the 2022-2023 season. Jackie McAllister, Vice President, Marriott Bonvoy Brand & Moments Marketing said “Our members travel to create unforgettable memories and it’s why we are thrilled to again offer incredible Marriott Bonvoy Moments experiences with Manchester United for our members who are diehard fans.  “With Marriott Bonvoy Moments, we give members extraordinary access to pursue their passions in life and enjoy their experiences with family and friends included” he added.

Sports Bulletin Report KARACHI: United States of America (USA) and German Consuls General in Karachi praised and encouraged Pakistan's special athletes for competing in Special Olympic Games 2023, which will be held in Berlin Germany. Both diplomats were speaking in a ceremony that was hosted by Chairperson Special Olympic Pakistan, Ronak Lakhani in honor of the special players who will be participating in the Special Olympic World Games 2023. US Consul General in Karachi, Nicole Theriot, said that the special players were an inspiration for everyone and are a shining example for Pakistani society.  "I am really proud of these young athletes, who are working hard to represent Pakistan at the Berlin Special Olympics 2023," she said.  "It is a great experience to spend time with such talented athletes."  The US Consul General recalled that the Special Olympic Games originated in the United States. "Today I feel happy and proud to attend the event representing my country here.  I am excited for your participation in the upcoming games as the United States strongly advocates for the rights and equality of persons with disabilities in every respect, including sports." German Consul General Rüdiger Lotz said: "I wish all these players a great time in Berlin and sincerely hope that not only do they perform at their best with their abilities but also learn and gain experience by playing against special players from around the world while enjoying the game and make the victory podium by doing so." Special Olympic Pakistan Chairperson Ronak Lakhani said: “The athletes who win the honours for the country are role models for all. They are differently abled and by no means are less than the others. I hope that this time too, like in the past, our athletes will win the medals at the Special Olympics and bring dignity and pride to Pakistan by securing medals."

Sports Bulletin Report ISLAMABAD: The Argentinian Ambassador to Pakistan, Leopoldo Francisco Sahores on Tuesday called on the Federal Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination (IPC) Ehsan ur Rehman Mazari here at his office. Federal Minister greeted and congratulated the ambassador on Argentina’s victory in the Football World Cup 2022.   Federal Minister said: “There is a great scope of cooperation between the two countries in the fields of Sports, especially football, polo, squash and mountaineering. Pakistan is home to a larger number of youth population, and it will be a great investment in developing the skills of youth in the field of sports. Pakistan can learn a lot from Argentinian’s experience and expertise in football coaching and training. The Federal Minister for IPC also discussed about the possibility of football coaching and training for the Pakistan female football players. Ambassador said that he had a detailed discussion in this regard with SAPM on Youth Affairs Pakistan and lots of matters relating to bilateral cooperation focusing specifically the youth were discussed. He said that Argentinian government would like a long term engagement with Pakistan especially in the field of Sports. He also talked about the potential visit of Argentinian female football players to Pakistan early this year, to train and coach female football players in Pakistan. He further said that Pakistan female football players from Quetta have a great talent for the sport.

Sports Bulletin Report LAHORE: President, Pakistan Baseball Federation (PBF) Syed Fakhr Ali Shah has been appointed as Member Development Commission of World Baseball & Softball Confederation (WBSC) on behalf of World Baseball Softball Confederation. According to available information, WBSC President Ricardo Ficari has issued a letter of appointment to him as a member of the Development Commission after the approval of the Executive Board. President WBSC Ricardo Ficari said: “Syed Fakhr Ali Shah's skills and knowledge of our game will be a great asset to the commission. It will be proven and I look forward to supporting the growth and success of our organization and myself. The chairman of this commission is Angelo Vicini and I offer my sincere congratulations on your appointment and in the meantime I wish you every success and hope that you will achieve success in your tenure”. Syed Fakhr Ali Shah said: “I thank the WBSC high-ups for giving me this honour. This position has been given for the first time in our region and it is a matter of honor for Pakistan and baseball circles”. Hamood Lakhvi, Secretary Sheikh Mazhar Ahmed, Khazin Tahir Mehmood, Women Wing Chairperson Sadia Alvi, Secretary A. Ayesha Aram, Head Coaches Mossadegh Hanif, Tariq Nadeem, Coach Aamir Imdad Bhatti, Media Manager Parvez Ahmed Sheikh, Legal Advisor Syed Fakhar Amir Kazmi, Office Secretary Shahid Raza and other provincial officials have congratulated Syed Fakhar Ali Shah on his appointment.