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T20 Champions Cup: Nafay stars in UMT Markhors win over Dolphins
RAWALPIND (PCB Report)I: Opening batter Khawaja Mohammad Nafay smashed a fiery half century to anchor UMT Markhors’ two-wicket win over a fighting Engro Dolphins on the fourth day of the Bahria Town Champions T20 Cup in Rawalpindi on Tuesday.Nafay’s 41-ball 68 spiced with four sixes and as many fours guided UMT Markhors to overhaul the modest 129-run target in 18.5 overs to give Markhors their second win in as many games. The Misbah-ul-Haq mentored team is now second with four points while ABL Stallions are top of the table, also with four points from two matches but have a superior net run-rate.22-year-old Nafay from Karachi lifted his team from the early loss of Fakhar Zaman (nought), Mohammad Shahzad (11, 9b, 2x4s) and Abdul Samad (1, 3b), adding 29 for the fourth wicket with skipper Iftikhar Ahmed who made five.Spinner Qasim Akram dismissed Nafay leg-before and then two more wickets fell as Dolphins fought back but Mohammad Nawaz made sure the chase was completed with a cautious 19-ball 18 not out including two fours while Akif Javed hit the winning boundary.Dolphins, who have now lost both their matches, were given an ideal start by fast bowler Sameen Gul who took three early wickets but other than him no bowler could detrack the rampaging Markhors.Earlier, sent into bat, Engro Dolphins lost Sahibzada Farhan in the first over, without scoring. Mohammad Akhlaq hit a 33-ball 40 studded with two sixes and three boundaries while Mirza Tahir Baig knocked 28-ball 29 with two sixes and a boundary.Dolphins were relying on vice-captain Qasim Akram who scored 14 and experienced batter Umar Amin who managed just 11 as they slumped from 81-2 to 128-9. Nawaz grabbed 3-28 while fast-rising pacer Akif Javed finished with 2-33.Scores in brief (UMT Markhors beat Engro Dolphins by two wickets):Engro Dolphins 128-9 in 20 overs (Mohammad Akhlaq 40, Mirza Tahir Baig 29; Mohammad Nawaz 3-28, Akif Javed 2-33)UMT Markhors 132-8 in 18.5 overs (Khawaja Mohammad Nafay 68, Mohammad Nawaz 18 not out; Sameen Gul 3-23, Qasim Akram 2-11)Player of the match: Khawaja Mohammad Nafay (UMT Markhors)Wednesday’s fixture: Nurpur Lions vs Lake City Panthers, 12pm at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium
Champions T20 Cup: Panthers overpower Dolphins by 8 wickets
A couple of performances, Umar Siddiq (78 runs), Ahmed Butt (3 for 19), sail Panthers to a big winAbdul Jabbar FaisalRAWALPINDI: A couple of performances, Umar Siddiq (78 runs), Ahmed Butt (3 for 19), guided Lake City Panthers to a comprehensive victory by 8 wickets against Engro Dolphins in the 3rd game of the ongoing Bahria Town Champions T20 Cup 2024 here at Pindi Cricket Stadium on Sunday.Siddiq's aggressive 53-ball knock was spiced with four towering sixes and eight boundaries. He gave Lake City Panthers a rollicking start with 33 coming in the first three overs and by the tenth over they had reached 86 for the loss of Sharjeel Khan 14.Siddiq and stand-in skipper Haider Ali, deputising for unfit Shadab Khan, added a rapid 101 for the second wicket to bring their team within 23 runs of victory. Mubasir Khan, who scored 16 not out, hit the winning six as the 161-run target was achieved in 16 overs. Haider's 28-ball 46 contained five boundaries and two sixes.Engro Dolphnis’ total of 160-8 showed most of the batters got starts but did not make it big, with promising youngster Mohammad Huraira the highest scorer with a 32-ball 37 that contained four boundaries and a six.Mohammad Suleman struck two sixes and a boundary in his 27-ball 34 while Mohammad Ghazi Ghori (27, 16b, 3x4s, 1x6) and Shayan Sheikh (20, 12b, 4x4s) chipped in with useful contributions as 55 runs came in the last five overs. For Panthers, all-rounder Amad Butt was the pick of the bowlers with 3-19 while Mohammad Ibtisam finished with 2-30.Scores in brief (Game-3):Results: Lake City Panthers beat Engro Dolphins by eight wicketsEngro Dolphins 160-8 in 20 overs (Mohammad Huraira 37, Mohammad Suleman 34, Mohammad Ghazi Ghori 27, Shayan Sheikh 20; Amad Butt 3-19, Mohammad Ibtisam 2-30)Lake City Panthers 161-2 in 16 overs (Umar Siddiq 78 not out, Haider Ali 46)Player of the match: Umar Siddiq (Lake City Panthers)Monday’s fixture: Allied Bank Stallions vs Nurpur Lions, 12pm, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
International Juniors Squash Championship: Mohammad Rayyan wins U9 title
Islamabad (Sports Desk): Pakistan's Mohammad Rayyan Zaman has won the Under-9 title of the 16th Redtone International Junior Squash Championship 2024 in the Under-9 category.Rayyan, the grandson of former World Squash Champion Qamar Zaman and son of former champion Mansoor Zaman, defeated Malaysia's Sai Nideesh 3-0 in the final, with a score of 11/7, 11/5, and 11/7.This impressive victory marks a proud moment for Pakistan squash, and Rayyan's achievement is a testament to his skills, dedication, and the rich squash legacy of his family.Rayyan's win is also a reflection of the hard work and dedication of his coaches, trainers, and family members who have supported him throughout his journey.The 16th Redtone International Junior Squash Championship 2024 was a highly competitive tournament that brought together some of the best young squash players from around the world.Rayyan's victory in the Under-9 category is a significant achievement, and it highlights his potential to become a top-ranked squash player in the future.Pakistan's squash community is thrilled with Rayyan's achievement, and his win is expected to inspire a new generation of young squash players in the country.With his impressive win, Rayyan has made a significant contribution to Pakistan's rich squash heritage, and his achievement will be remembered for a long time to come.
BADMINTON - National 08 Dec, 2024
Mohammad Ali Larosh claims Double Crown, Ghazala lifts Women’s Singles titleAbdul Jabbar FaisalISLAMABAD: Rising badminton national player, Mohammad Ali Larosh clinched Men’s Single and Men’s Double titles of the Chairman POF Board National Ranking Badminton Championships that concluded here on Sunday. Larosh from Pakistan WAPDA was pairing with Raja Zulqarnain Haider of Pakistan Army in doubles’ final.In the men’s singles final, Mohammad Ali Larosh outclassed Irfan Saeed in straight games 2-0 without any resistance. Larosh won the first game after conceding 13 points, as the final score-line was 21-13, 21-14. Mohammad Kashif Azad (HI) (M) Director General Commercial POF Wah was the chief guest on this occasion and distributed trophies and prizes amongst the top players.Results (Finals):Men’s Singles: Mohammad Ali Larosh (Wapda) beat Irfan Saeed (Wapda) 21-13, 21-14Women’s Singles: Ghazala Siddique (Wapda) beat Mahoor Shahzad (Wapda) retired hurt (21-12, 4-1)Men’s Doubles: Raja Zulqarnain Haider (Army) & Mohammad Ali Larosh (Wapda) beat Awais Zahid & Zunain Javed (Wapda) 21-18, 21-16Women’s Doubles: Saima Waqas (Wapda) & Ammarah Ishtiaq (Army) beat Palwasha Bashir (Sindh) & Ghazala Siddique (Wapda) 21-15, 12-21, 21-10.
Zaman Brothers Shine at KL International Squash Championship
Islamabad (SBR): The Zaman brothers, continuing their family’s legendary squash legacy, are making waves at the 16th KL Redtone International Squash Championship in Malaysia. Sons of former World No. 11 Mansoor Zaman and grandsons of squash icon Qamar Zaman, both Abdullah Zaman and Mohammad Rayyan Zaman showcased outstanding performances in their respective matches.Abdullah Zaman , demonstrated exceptional skill and composure as he defeated South Africa’s McNeil Aiden in straight games with a score-line of 11-7, 11-7, 11-6, Abdullah advanced to the 4th round, leaving a strong impression on the international stage.Meanwhile, his younger brother, Mohammad Rayyan Zaman, an 8-year-old squash prodigy, put on a dominating display against Malaysia’s Lagnesh Shai Dharshan. Rayyan triumphed in the Quarterfinals with a flawless 3-0 victory (11-0, 11-4, 11-0), highlighting his growing potential in the Under-9 category.The Zaman brothers’ performances reflect not only their dedication but also the guidance and inspiration drawn from their family’s rich squash heritage. Fans and squash enthusiasts eagerly anticipate their next matches as they aim to further cement their mark in the championship.
TENNIS - Wheelchair 08 Dec, 2024
Sports Bulletin ReportShrewsbury (UK): Asif Gul Abbasi, an inspirational figure in British wheelchair tennis, triumphed at the National Finals Wheelchair Tennis Tournament held in Shrewsbury this weekend, reclaiming his position as the nation's best. Hailing from Essex, Abbasi demonstrated unparalleled skill and determination as he clinched his fourth national singles title, adding to his victories in 2017, 2018, and 2019. He also secured the men’s doubles title, completing a stunning weekend of tennis.Overcoming Adversity: Abbasi's triumph is made all the more remarkable by the challenges he overcame leading up to the tournament. In August, he sustained an arm injury and was later diagnosed with elbow joint arthritis and neuropathy in his dominant arm. These setbacks cast doubt on his ability to play at a high level again. However, Abbasi refused to let these obstacles define his journey.Reflecting on his struggles, Abbasi said, “After the setbacks, I wasn’t sure if I would ever play tennis at a good level again. This injury forced me to change my technique, but it also helped me to play better than before. I am happy that I was able to perform well in this situation.”A Performance to Remember: Despite the physical challenges, Abbasi entered the tournament as the top seed and delivered a commanding performance. In the singles semi-final, he faced Philip Fielding, the 2023 defending champion, and overwhelmed him with a 6-2, 6-2 victory. He then faced Barton in the final and secured an emphatic 6-1, 6-0 win, capturing the title without dropping a set throughout the tournament.Doubling Down on Success: Not content with just the singles title, Abbasi also partnered with Kevin Lewis from South Wales in the men’s doubles competition, showcasing his versatility and teamwork. Together with his partner, he delivered a flawless display to claim the doubles championship, with 6:1, 6:0 in the final, further cementing his status as a formidable all-around player.A Legacy of Excellence and Resilience: Abbasi’s win in Shrewsbury marks his return to the top of British wheelchair tennis after a hiatus from national triumphs. With this victory, he not only adds to his collection of titles but also inspires the next generation of players, particularly in disability tennis, a field he has passionately promoted throughout his career.With 30 years of coaching experience, a career-best international ranking of 82, and a commitment to developing future talent, Abbasi continues to be a beacon of hope and resilience.Despite the condition of his arm, Abbasi remains optimistic about his future. “I will try to adapt and accept my fate, but I will never give up,” he said. He now looks forward to competing in international tournaments, where he hopes to continue raising the profile of wheelchair tennis on the global stage.Looking Ahead: Asif Abbasi’s triumph in Shrewsbury is more than just a personal achievement; it is a testament to the power of perseverance, adaptability, and unyielding passion. His journey serves as an inspiration to athletes everywhere, showing that with determination, even the toughest challenges can be transformed into opportunities for greatness.
FOOTBALL - Int News 07 Dec, 2024
Sports Bulletin ReportDoha (Qatar): Pakistan and Saudi Arabia played out a 1-1 draw in a thrilling FIFA Women's International Friendly match held in Aspire Academy, Doha, Qatar. The match saw both teams put up a strong fight, with Saudi Arabia taking the lead in the first half before Pakistan responded late to level the score. Saudi Arabia had the upper hand at halftime, leading 1-0. The breakthrough for the Saudi team came in the 39th minute when Talah Alghamdi found the back of the net, giving her side a crucial lead going into the break. However, Pakistan made a spirited comeback in the second half. In the 88th minute, Pakistan's Sohai Herani delivered a stunning equalizer off a well-executed corner kick. The match ended in a 1-1 draw, with both teams sharing the spoils after an intense encounter.
Champions T20 Cup: Markhors and Stallions register triumphs on day-1
Markhors hunt Nupur Lions by 4 wickets, Stallions overcome Panthers by 35 runsAbdul Jabbar FaisalRAWALPINDI: UMT Markhors and ABL Stallions posted victories after beating Nupur Lions by 4 wickets and Panthers by 35 runs respectively in the first and second match of the Bahria Town Champions T20 Cup that commenced here at the Pindi Cricket Stadium on Saturday.The two matches saw a number of talented players displaying their talent, with the 19-year-old local boy Saad Masood playing a man-of-the-match role in UMT Markhors’ win over Nurpur Lions in the opening game. The highlight of day one was a superlative century by experienced international all-rounder Hussain Talat who smashed an unbeaten 50-ball 101 for ABL Stallions, his maiden T20 century. In the first match UMT Markhors’ Masood finished with 2-20 and was ably supported by Mohammad Sarwar Afridi (2-11) and Nisar Ahmed (2-21) to keep Lions down to 150-7. For Lions Mohammad Awais Zafar top-scored with a 34-ball 40 with five boundaries. Hasan Nawaz hit a rapid 13-ball 22 with one six and three boundaries.Markhors’ chase was anchored by opener Fakhar Zaman who scored a 25-ball 28 with a six and three fours before skipper Iftikhar Ahmed’s unbeaten 34-ball 42 with two sixes and a boundary crossed the line in company of Masood, sharing an unbroken 50-run stand for the seventh wicket.In the Allied Bank Stallions win, Talat and Haris shared a rampaging 128-run third wicket stand after Lake City Panthers sent them into bat. Talat cracked a dozen boundaries and three maximums. Opener Yasir Khan gave Stallions a brisk start with a 15-ball 27 inclusive of two sixes and three boundaries.The chase for Lake City Panthers started on a wrong note when their skipper Shadab Khan was ruled out and could not bat due to back pain. Haider Ali (26-ball 54) smashed four towering sixes and five boundaries in his 26-ball cracker and during his third wicket stand of 40 with Mubasir Khan (19-ball 29 with three fours and a six) it looked like their team would succeed in the chase. But spinner Usman Tariq, who took 3-25, removed Haider to halt the progress. In the end City Lake Panthers managed 181 in 19.1 overs. Pacer Mohammad Ali also bagged three wickets in his four overs giving away 33 runs. Scores in brief:Match 1 - UMT Markhors beat Nurpur Lions by four wickets, Rawalpindi Cricket StadiumNurpur Lions 150-7, 20 overs (Muhammad Awais Zafar 40 not out, Hasan Nawaz 22; Mohammad Sarwar Afridi 2-11, Saad Masood 2-20, Nisar Ahmed 2-21)UMT Markhors 154-6, 19 overs (Iftikhar Ahmed 42 not out, Fakhar Zaman 28, Saad Masood 26 not out; Mohammad Salman 3-21, Shahid Aziz 2-27)Player of the match – Saad Masood (UMT Markhors)Match 2 - ABL Stallions beat Lake City Panthers by 35 runs, Rawalpindi Cricket StadiumABL Stallions 216-3, 20 overs (Hussain Talat 101 not out, Mohammad Haris 55, Yasir Khan 27; Mohammad Ibtisam 2-36)Lake City Panthers 181 all out, 19.1 overs (Haider Ali 54, Mubasir Khan 29, Umar Siddiq 24, Amad Butt 23; Usman Tariq 3-25, Mohammad Ali 3-33, Tahir Hussain 2-41)Sunday’s Fixture:Lake City Panthers vs Engro Dolphins, 12pm.
TENPIN BOWLING - National 07 Dec, 2024
Sports Bulletin ReportKARACHI: The 9th Pakistan Open Bowling Championship 2024 will be held from December 18 to 25 here at Royal Rodale Sports Club and Recreations Club DHA simultaneously, said an official of Sindh Tenpin Bowling Association (SBA).Top national players from all over the country will participate in different categories competitions including men’s, women’s, deaf and 40+.
CLIMBING - Int News 07 Dec, 2024
Sports Bulletin ReportTorino (Italy): The ninth stop of the IFSC World Cup Series 2025 will bring the fastest climbers in the world, including Paris 2024 women’s Speed champion Aleksandra Miroslaw and bronze medallist Aleksandra Kalucka, to the Polish capital of Krakow.The event, which will take place on the weekend of 5 and 6 July, will mark the return of an IFSC World Cup to Poland for the first time in 16 years and the third overall after two Speed World Cups were held in Tarnów in 2007 and 2009. More recently, Climbing was featured in the programme of two multi-sport events organised in Polish territory: The World Games 2017 in Wrocław and the European Games 2023 in Krakow and Małopolska.IFSC President Marco Scolaris said in his message: “We are more than happy to welcome Poland back on our World Cup calendar next July. We have beautiful memories of events in Poland from The World Games 2017 and European Games 2023. To bring the Climbing family to Krakow, such a famous, historical, monumental city, is really exciting. What a great way to celebrate Aleksandra Miroslaw, your Olympic champion, and the whole Polish team, who has performed excellently in Speed for many seasons.”Following the spectacular debut of Speed as a standalone discipline at the Paris Olympics, a field of top-class speedsters led by Miroslaw and Kalucka is expected to compete in Krakow next July: Natalia Kalucka – Aleksandra’s twin sister; women's Speed silver medallist at Paris 2024, Deng Lijuan of China; men’s Speed Olympic champion Veddriq Leonardo of Indonesia; current men’s world record holder Sam Watson of the USA; and the reigning world champions in the discipline – Desak Made Rita Kusuma Dewi of Indonesia and Matteo Zurloni of Italy.
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