Sports Bulletin ReportKARACHI: Rameez Aziz struck an unbeaten century to help State Bank of Pakistan post 314 for five in 90 overs against Eshaal Associates on day one of the sixth round match of the President’s Trophy Grade-I on Friday. SNGPL’s Kashif Ali and KRL’s Jawad Ali bagged five-fers against HEC and Ghani Glass, respectively.At UBL Sports Complex, batting first, HEC were bundled out for 179 in 43.4 overs against SNGPL. Mohammad Mohsin Khan top-scored for the side with 37. In turn, SNGPL were 100 for seven in 29 overs when stumps were drawn. HEC’s Maaz Khurram was the pick of the bowlers, bagging three wickets for 34.At KCCA Stadium, Ghani Glass on the back of Junaid Ali’s 116 managed to score 390 for nine in 91.2 overs, when stumps were drawn. Junaid’s innings included 20 boundaries, which came off 148 balls. Pakistan Test captain Shan Masood was the other notable run-getter with a 60-ball 67, which included 12 fours. KRL’s Jawad Ali grabbed five wickets for 115 runs, while Mohammad Qaisar took three wickets for 60.Rameez Aziz’ eighth first-class century (135 not out, 180b, 21x4s) and half-centuries by Test batters Fawad Alam (59, 141b, 5x4s) and Imran Butt (55, 91b, 6x4s) lifted SBP to 314 for five in 90 overs against Eshaal Associates at SBP Sports Complex. For Eshaal Associates, Jalat Khan and Nisar Ahmed took two wickets each.At Rashid Latif Cricket Academy Ground in Karachi, PTV, on the back of half-centuries by Waqar Hussain (78, 103b, 6x4s, 3x6s), Muhammad Shahzad (74, 74b, 8x4s, 2x6s) and Mohammad Taha (59, 97b, 7x4s) managed to score 375 for six in 90 overs. For WAPDA, captain Khalid Usman was the most successful bowler, taking four wickets for 124 in 31 overs.Scores in brief:Day 1 of 4Higher Education Commission vs Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited at UBL Sports Complex, KarachiHEC 179 all out, 43.4 overs (Mohammad Mohsin Khan 37, Abdullah Fazal 29; Kashif Ali 5-56, Mohammad Salman 2-30, Bilawal Bhatti 2-31)SNGPL 100-7, 29 overs (Abid Ali 30, Saif Ullah Bangash 26, Qasim Akram 23 not out; Maaz Khurram Amin 3-34, Waseem Akram Jnr 2-20, Muhammad Azab 2-42)Khan Research Laboratories vs Ghani Glass at KCCA Stadium, KarachiGhani Glass 390-9, 91.2 overs (Junaid Ali 116, Shan Masood 67, Noman Ali 49, Kashif Ali 46; Jawad Ali 5-115, Mohammad Qaisar 3-60)State Bank of Pakistan vs Eshaal Associates at SBP Sports Complex, KarachiSBP 314-5, 90 overs (Rameez Aziz 135 not out, Fawad Alam 59, Imran Butt 55; Nisar Ahmed 2-69, Jalat Khan 2-74)Pakistan Television vs Water and Power Development Authority at Rashid Latif Cricket Academy Ground, KarachiPTV 375-6, 90 overs (Waqar Hussain 78, Mohammad Shahzad 74, Mohammad Taha 59, Shamyl Hussain 42; Khalid Usman 4-124).

Sports Bulletin ReportLAHORE: The tri-nation ODI series involving hosts Pakistan, along with New Zealand and South Africa will be played from 8 t0 14 February at the newly constructed Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore and National Bank Stadium in Karachi.Pakistan will take on New Zealand at the Gaddafi Stadium on Saturday, with the first ball to be bowled at 2pm PST. In the single-league tournament, New Zealand will take on South Africa on Monday, 10 February at the same venue in the day game. The match is scheduled to begin at 09.30am.After the second match, the action will move to Karachi, where the home side will take on South Africa at the National Bank Stadium in a day-night match on Wednesday, 12 February. The final of the event will be played between the top two sides on Friday, 14 February with the first ball to be bowled at 2pm PST.Mohammad Rizwan on the eve of the tri-nation series said: “We are excited to be playing again in front of our home crowd and in the newly constructed stadiums in Lahore and Karachi. The preparations have gone well so far with the players looking to give their best in the tournament leading up to the ICC event.”New Zealand, who had their first training session at the LCCA Ground on Thursday evening, will look to make a winning start in the tournament. Mitchell Santner said, “We had a good training session in Lahore under lights and can’t wait to take on the home side on Saturday.“It is great to be back in Pakistan and the side had a good outing when we toured last time. The tri-nation series will provide us a great opportunity to know about the wickets and help us prepare well for the upcoming pinnacle event.”Temba Bavuma said: “It is a great opportunity for the side to warm up before the mega event. We have a mixed squad and the tri-nation tournament will help us acclimatise to the conditions before we gear up for the ICC event.”Schedule of tri-series matches: (day/night matches will start at 2pm, day match will begin at 0930):8 February – Pakistan v New Zealand (d/n)10 February – New Zealand v South Africa (d)12 February – Pakistan v South Africa (d/n)14 February – Final (d/n) 

Sports Bulletin ReportLausanne (Switzerland): China came from behind twice to clinch an incredible 3-2 win over Spain as FIH Hockey Pro League action continued in Sydney on Friday, their first over the Spanish in seven years. Earlier in the day, the Netherlands men bounced back from their surprise loss to Australia on Thursday with a 2-1 win over Spain to climb to the top of the table.(Women’s) Spain 2 – 3 China: Spain opened the scoring in the third minute when Patricia Alvarez dived at full pace for her deflection on the right post, but the Chinese slowly gained the ascendancy and Jinzhuang Tan levelled from a penalty corner in the sixth minute. There were no further opportunities in the half and the scores remained locked on 1-1 at the break.China really got on the front foot in the early stages of the third period and Spanish goalkeeper Clara Perez did sterling work to keep them at bay. She first made an excellent penalty corner save before scrambling to the baseline to shut out recycled ball, and later made a fully stretched foot save from open play. Spain were still aggressive, earning a couple of circle entries and penalty corners before reclaiming the lead with a 45th-minute PC variation from Candela Mejias.China again showed their willingness to pursue a result by pulling their goalkeeper off early, this time with 13 minutes remaining. Perez made three huge saves before she was finally beaten by two perfectly placed penalty corner slaps. The first was by Ou Zixia in the 57th minute and the second by Tan with just 70 seconds remaining as China wrapped up a remarkable win.(Men’s) Spain 1 – 2 Netherlands: The Netherlands raced into the lead in the second minute, Pepijn van der Heijden finding the back of the net with a well-executed drag flick. They went on to boss the quarter with numerous opportunities while Spain had a solitary attempt from a penalty corner.The Red Sticks worked their way into the game in the second quarter, making some good intercepts and fast counterattacks, but the Dutch remained 1-0 up at half time.The Dutch doubled their lead in the 34th minute from a poor Spanish clearance, intercepting on the 23-yard line and finding Koen Bijen in the circle for a first-time strike. Maurits Visser then denied Spain with an excellent save from open play, but a sublime deflection from Gerard Clapes in the 41st minute closed the gap. Rafael Revilla then made a couple of vital saves while a Spanish player served a five-minute suspension to keep his team in contention with 15 minutes to play.

LAHORE (PR): FG Polo and HN Polo have secured their spots in the main final of the 5th Jinnah Gold Cup 2025, following thrilling victories on the third day of the tournament here at Jinnah Polo Fields.As part of the season’s first high-goal event, two competitive matches were played yesterday, drawing a large crowd of spectators and families. In the first match of the day, FG Polo clinched a hard-fought 4-3 victory over DS Polo, booking their place in the final. For FG Polo, Raja Mikael Sami and Nicolas Ruiz scored two goals each. For DS Polo, Daniyal Sheikh, Max Charlton, and Ahmed Ali Tiwana each contributed one goal. The match kicked off with FG Polo drawing first blood through a well-executed field goal, but DS Polo quickly responded, leveling the score at 1-1. The second chukker mirrored the first, as both teams added one goal each, keeping the contest finely balanced at 2-2. In the third chukker, DS Polo edged ahead, netting the only goal of the period to take a slender 3-2 lead. However, FG Polo staged a brilliant comeback in the fourth and final chukker, firing in two consecutive goals to secure a thrilling 4-3 victory in a nail-biting finish. The second match of the day saw HN Polo deliver an emphatic 7-4 win against Olympia/AZB, securing their final berth. For HN Polo, Hamza Mawaz Khan led the charge with five fabulous goals, while Ramiro Zavaleta and Pelayo Berazadi added one goal each. For Olympia/AZB, Luis Manuel Aguirre netted three goals, and Novillo Astrada scored one goal. HN Polo set the tone early, firing in two quick goals to establish a 2-0 lead. However, Olympia/AZB pulled one back in the dying moments of the first chukker, converting a 40-yard penalty to narrow the gap to 2-1. The second chukker unfolded in a similar fashion, with HN Polo once again striking twice in succession to extend their advantage to 4-1. Olympia/AZB responded with a goal, reducing the deficit to 4-2 at the halfway mark. The third chukker saw an evenly matched contest, as both teams found the net once, maintaining HN Polo’s lead at 5-3. In the fourth and final chukker, HN Polo asserted their dominance, adding two more goals, while Olympia/AZB managed just one, sealing a comprehensive 7-4 victory for HN Polo. With these results, the Jinnah Gold Cup 2025 main final will feature a high-stakes clash between FG Polo and HN Polo, while the subsidiary final will see DS Polo face BN/Newage Polo. 

Jahidul Islam Shaon: An Entrepreneur, Instructor, and SEO ExpertJahidul Islam Shaon is a seasoned entrepreneur, dedicated instructor, and SEO expert with extensive experience in digital marketing. He currently serves as an SEO Instructor at Mexemy and a Lead Trainer at E-Learning and Earning Ltd., empowering individuals with the skills and knowledge to thrive in the digital space.Jahidul Islam Shaon, a prominent figure in the digital marketing education sphere, is making substantial contributions by equipping learners with vital skills to thrive in today’s digital world. With his current roles as a Course Instructor at Mexemy and a Lead Trainer at E-Learning and Earning Ltd., Shaon’s dedication to education and digital marketing has established him as a thought leader in the industry.SEO Instructor at MexemyShaon joined Mexemy in September 2024, where he has been instrumental in enhancing students' SEO capabilities. As an SEO Instructor, he meticulously develops and delivers comprehensive training modules that encompass the latest SEO techniques. His courses focus on practical, hands-on strategies designed to drive organic growth, improve search engine rankings, and boost online visibility for businesses. Leveraging his extensive experience in WordPress SEO, freelancing, and digital marketing, Shaon imparts valuable insights to students, enabling them to build successful careers in the digital space. His primary objective is to provide students with actionable knowledge that leads to tangible success.Lead Trainer at E-Learning and Earning Ltd.For over two years, Shaon has been a cornerstone of E-Learning and Earning Ltd. As a Lead Trainer, he plays a pivotal role in designing and delivering comprehensive digital marketing training programs. These programs cover essential areas such as SEO, social media marketing, social media management, email marketing, lead generation, content marketing, and freelancing. Emphasizing practical application, Shaon guides students through real-world strategies and tools, empowering them to drive online growth and create effective digital campaigns. His mission is to help learners unlock their potential and achieve significant success in the digital arena.Training with the Department of Youth DevelopmentSince March 2023, Shaon has been actively involved with the Department of Youth Development in Sylhet, Bangladesh. In this capacity, he has been committed to empowering young individuals with the knowledge and skills required to excel in the dynamic field of digital marketing.Jahidul Islam Shaon’s unwavering dedication to education and innovative approach to digital marketing training have earned him considerable recognition in the industry. Through his impactful work at Mexemy and E-Learning and Earning Ltd., he continues to inspire and empower the next generation of digital marketing professionals, fostering a community of skilled and confident individuals ready to navigate the complexities of the digital world.For more information, you can connect with Jahidul Islam Shaon on [LinkedIn] and view his [instructor profile on Mexemy]Written by: Jibon Krishna Das

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. 

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.

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.

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. 

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.