Sports Bulletin ReportLausanne (Switzerland): Australia’s inexperienced young team rallied from a defeat at the hands of Spain a day earlier to claim an unexpected 4-2 victory over Olympic champions the Netherlands in a FIH Hockey Pro League clash in Sydney on Thursday.(Men’s) Australia 4 – 2 Netherlands: The young Australians started the first quarter far better than their opening match on Wednesday and created a couple of early circle penetrations. The Dutch still exploited some big gaps in the Kookaburras’ structure and had repeated success with long probing passes and runs through the centre, goalkeeper Jed Snowden doing sterling work on four occasions to deny them through the first quarter.Australia tightened their structure in the second period, which relieved a lot of the self-inflicted pressure. The Netherlands still created good opportunities, but the Australians got stronger as the half progressed and Jake Harvie fired them ahead with a 27th-minute penalty stroke for a 1-0 lead at half time.That lead was doubled in the 34th minute when Davis Atkin bagged his first international goal with a bunted shot over the goalkeeper after receiving a long overhead from Corey Weyer. The Dutch grew increasingly frustrated as the hosts bossed the third quarter, and found themselves three down when Copper Burns scored his first international goal in the 43rd minute. Koen Bijen pulled one back with a deflection from a recycled penalty corner and it was 3-1 heading into the final period.Tjep Hoedemakers snatched a rebound goal for the Dutch in the 47th minute, but Ky Willott immediately restored the Kookaburras’ two-goal cushion with a tap-in at the right post. The contest played out at a frenetic pace as the Dutch pushed hard for a result, but there were no further goals.(Women’s) Australia 2 – 2 China (SO: 2 – 1): Hosts Australia played out a 2-2 draw with China before going on to clinch the shootout 2-1.In a rematch of the Olympic quarterfinal, which China won, it was the Australians who dominated the first quarter, creating circle entries and half chances, without much success, however. The Hockeyroos were eventually rewarded when Claire Colwill fired them ahead with a penalty stroke in the dying seconds of the quarter.Australia struck again in the 16th minute, when Courtney Schonell got a good deflection from open play. China gradually established some control through the second quarter and made it count from their third penalty corner, Jinzhuang Tan beating the defence in the 28th minute.There were some sweeping attacks and dangerous moments in both circles as the space seemed to open up in a goalless third quarter, and the match was in the balance with Australia holding a slender 2-1 lead heading into the final period.The Hockeyroos got on the front foot quickly, but poor execution of 46th and 48th-minute penalty corners kept China in touch. The Chinese then made a brave decision to substitute their goalkeeper with 11 minutes left on the clock. They carried tremendous attacking momentum through the next seven minutes and were rewarded when Tan equalised with her second from a 56th-minute penalty corner. China immediately got Li Xinhuan back in the cage where she saved a penalty corner a minute later.Lucy Sharman had a sharp chance to snatch victory for the Hockeyroos with seconds left on the clock, but her shot slipped wide. With the points shared, Australia went on to clinch the shootout 2-1 for a bonus point.

PESHAWAR (PR): The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has long been known for producing talented athletes, and among them, Ubaid Ullah Khan has emerged as a shining star in the world of martial arts. Recognizing his remarkable achievements, Metrix Pakistan has decided to honor him with the "Pride of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Award 2025." This prestigious recognition is not only a personal milestone for him but also a source of inspiration for young athletes across the province.Ubaid Ullah Khan has earned multiple accolades throughout his career, excelling both at the national and international levels. His achievements include:Bronze Medal in the National Wushu Championship, Two-time Gold Medalist in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Wushu ChampionshipGold Medal in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Under-21 GamesGold Medal in the French Kickboxing (Savate) International ChampionshipThese accomplishments reflect his dedication, perseverance, and relentless hard work, which have propelled him to the top ranks of martial arts in Pakistan.Ubaid Ullah Khan’s success is not just a personal victory; it serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring athletes in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. His journey proves that with passion, determination, and unwavering commitment, no goal is out of reach.The decision to award him the "Pride of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Award" further underscores the abundance of talent in the province. With proper guidance and opportunities, young athletes can follow in his footsteps and bring glory to Pakistan on international platforms.Ubaid Ullah Khan’s achievements are set to inspire a new generation of martial artists, motivating them to aim higher and work harder in pursuit of excellence.

Abdullah AsjadKARACHI: The first round of the Bank AL Habib 14th Rashid D. Habib National Professional Golf Tournament rolled into action here at Karachi Golf Club, delivering an exhilarating day of competition as top professional golfers showcased their talent on the course.Ahmed Baig and Mohammad Zubair dominated the leaderboard, both carding an impressive 65 (-7), setting the pace for the tournament. Their stellar performances were marked by precise driving and superb putting, making them the players to watch in the coming rounds. Close on their heels, Mohammad Munir posted a solid 67 (-5), followed by Mudassir Iqbal with a 68 (-4), keeping the competition intense.The course played exceptionally well, with ideal weather conditions favoring aggressive play. The par-5 holes proved to be the biggest scoring opportunities, with many players taking advantage to gain strokes on the field. Notably, Ahmed Baig's consistency across the front and back nine helped him secure his top spot, while Zubair's precision on the greens solidified his position.Following closely behind, Mohammad Sajjad, Mohammad Sharif of Pakistan Navy (PN), and Tallat Ijaz each finished with a score of 69 (-3), positioning themselves within striking distance of the leaders. With such a tightly contested leaderboard, the next rounds promise to deliver thrilling golf action. Two of the amateurs broke 80 namely Sadiq Habib (77) and Arsalan Shikoh Khan (78).“This championship always brings out the best in the players, and today was no exception,” said tournament director Commodore Zafar and the chief referee Col Zahid. “The competition is heating up, and we anticipate an exciting battle over the next three days.”

LAHORE (PR): CrewLogix Technologies secured a crucial 7-5 victory against CTI Shipping on the second day of the 4th Junior Polo Championship, organized by Lahore Garrison Polo Grounds and sponsored by TCL.  The thrilling match, held at Pakistan Park Cavalry Ground, attracted a large number of spectators and families. Among the notable attendees were Club Secretary Major Babar Mehboob Awan, TCL’s Muhammad Owais, and other dignitaries.  In a competitive encounter, Saim Abbas led Crew Logix Technologies with an impressive four goals, while young Diyan Ahmed Butt added three goals to seal the victory. For CTI Shipping, M Mustafa Fahd Khan was the standout performer, scoring three goals, while Muzammil Ahmed and Syed Ayan Salman contributed one goal each. The opening chukker was a tightly contested affair, with both teams displaying remarkable skill and intensity, ending the period locked at 2-2. The second chukker maintained the thrilling momentum as each side added another goal to keep the score level at 3-3. CTI Shipping started the third chukker on a strong note, capitalizing on a 40-yard penalty conversion to take a narrow 4-3 lead.  However, CrewLogix Technologies responded emphatically, launching a stunning comeback with three consecutive goals, surging ahead to 6-4. In the fourth and final chukker, both teams managed to add a goal to their tally, but CrewLogix Technologies maintained their dominance, securing a well-fought 7-5 victory.

Sports Bulletin ReportKARACHI: The Bank AL Habib’s 14th Rashid D. Habib Memorial National Professional Golf Tournament 2025 will tee off on Thursday, 6th February at the picturesque Karachi Golf Club (KGC). The final round will be played on Sunday, 9th February 2025.More than a hundred top golfers will compete in the Professionals category for one of the most coveted four-day National Competition of the Annual Golf Season. Last year, Ahmad Baig of RPG won the coveted trophy by carding 275, 13 under par, to win the tournament. Muhammad Zubair of KGC was the runner-up by carding 282, 6 under par. Prior to this event, a two-day match for local KGC Professionals, Senior Professionals and KGC Caddies, the 24th edition of Rashid D. Habib Memorial Golf Tournament, is being played on 3rd and 4th February 2025. This Year Bank AL Habib PRO-AM Golf tournament has also been added for the encouragement and collaboration of Professionals with Amateurs to support and develop professional golf at KGC. The total Prize Money of PKR 12 million includes PKR 9.4 M for Best Performers in National Professional Category, PKR 1.95 M for KGC Professionals, Caddies and Senior Pros, as well as the newly added amateur category. Appearance Money for Top professionals has been enhanced to record PKR 1.37 Million. For encouragement of golf this year top three Junior professionals have also been considered for appearance money. The Appearance Money is distributed amongst the top five Professionals including top three Senior Professionals and Junior Professionals, as per PGF current order of merit.The lucky players achieving first hole-in-one will also be rewarded with a Toyota Corolla and a Suzuki Alto in National and Local KGC categories respectively. The prize distribution ceremony will be held on 9th Feb 2025.  

LAHORE (PR): Zacky Farm Polo outpaced Sula Polo in opening match of the 4th Junior Polo Championship 2025, sponsored by TCL Pakistan, commenced at Pakistan Park Polo Ground, marking the beginning of an exciting competition among young polo talents. The tournament, a part of the Pakistan Polo Association's official calendar, features four competing teams including Sula Polo, Zacky Farm Polo, CTI Shipping, and Crewlogix Technologies. A large number of spectators, including families and polo enthusiasts, gathered to witness the thrilling first match and cheered on the young players, creating a lively and encouraging atmosphere. Maj (R) Babar Mehboob Awan, the club's secretary, along with former polo players, also attended the event. The opening match saw Zaki Farms Polo Team secure a convincing 3-1 victory over Sula Polo Team. Zacky Farm Polo’s star player, Zackaria Daud Ali Khan, stole the show by scoring all three goals for his team, leading them to victory. Sula Polo's lone goal was scored by Rabeel Noman Hussain. On Tuesday (February 4, 2025), Crewlogix Technologies set to face CTI Shipping in what promises to be another exciting contest. 

Sports Bulletin ReportLAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced a 15-player squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled to take place in Pakistan from 19 February to 9 March. The PCB has until 11 February to make any changes to the squad; thereafter, replacements will only be permitted on medical grounds, subject to approval by the ICC Event Technical Committee. The same squad will also feature in the tri-nation ODI series, featuring New Zealand and South Africa in Lahore and Karachi, in the lead up to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.The squad, to be captained by Mohammad Rizwan with Salman Ali Agha as vice-captain, includes three members from the 2017 title-winning side - Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf and Fakhar Zaman. Babar and Fakhar, along with Haris Rauf, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Saud Shakeel had also featured in the last 50-over ICC event - the ICC Men’s 50-over Cricket World Cup 2023.Pakistan’s 15-player squad: Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir, Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, Salman Ali Agha (vice-captain), Mohammad Rizwan (captain), Usman Khan, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah AfridiOpener Fakhar Zaman, who scored a century in the ICC Champions Trophy 2017 final against India, makes a comeback after overcoming injury and illness that had sidelined him from international cricket since June 2024. Fakhar demonstrated his return to complete fitness and form during the Champions T20 Cup 2024 in December, where he was the third-highest run-scorer with 303 runs at an impressive strike-rate of over 132. In 82 ODIs, Fakhar has scored 3,492 runs with 11 centuries and 16 half-centuries at an average of 46.5 and strike-rate of 93.4.Asad Shafiq, member, National Selection Committee: “The selectors have continued to adopt a horses for courses approach in assembling this squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Our focus has been on selecting players who have consistently excelled in domestic competitions under similar conditions, demonstrating their readiness to perform in a global event. One of the standout qualities of this side is its flexibility - an essential trait in today’s modern-day cricket. We are confident that this squad strikes the right balance between youth and experience, and has all bases covered. Each player has been chosen with a clear role in mind, ensuring the captain has versatile options at his disposal.“Fakhar’s opening partner could be either Babar Azam or Saud Shakeel, depending on various factors such as conditions, opposition and match strategy. Both players are highly capable at the top of the order, with Babar being particularly seasoned in the role, regularly opening in T20Is and also excelling in the Cape Town Test by scoring two half-centuries in Saim Ayub’s absence.“Saim Ayub has not been included in the squad due to an ankle injury, but we remain optimistic about his recovery. We understand how much he was looking forward to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 and recognise how devastating it must be for him to miss a global event, especially when he is in such exceptional batting form. However, as a valuable asset to our team, we are committed to prioritising his long-term health over making any rushed decisions.Player support personnel: Naveed Akram Cheema (team manager), Hina Munawar (team operations manager), Aqib Javed (interim head coach), Azhar Mahmood (assistant coach), Shahid Aslam (batting coach), Mohammad Masroor (fielding coach), Abdul Rehman (spin bowling coach), Cliffe Deacon (physiotherapist), Drikus Saiman (strength and conditioning coach), Talha Butt (analyst), Irtiza Komail (security manager), Dr Wajid Ali Rafai (team doctor), Syed Naeem Ahmad (media and digital manager) and Sergio Basil Mullins (masseur).Upcoming ODIs:8 Feb – vs New Zealand, Lahore (tri-nation ODI series)12 Feb – vs South Africa, Karachi (tri-nation ODI series)19 Feb – vs New Zealand, Karachi (ICC Champions Trophy 2025)23 Feb – vs India, Dubai (ICC Champions Trophy 2025)27 Feb – vs Bangladesh, Rawalpindi (ICC Champions Trophy 2025)

Sports Bulletin ReportKARACHI: World Snooker Champion Mohammad Asif, Mohammad Sajjad, Owais Munir, and Shahid Aftab advanced into the semi-finals of the NBP 49th National Snooker Championship after beating their opponents in the quarterfinals here at the Snooker Arena of the National Bank Sports Complex on Thursday. In the quarter-final matches, Naseem Akhtar, Sohail Shahzad, Ean Mark John and Abdul Sattar were lost their hopes. Shahid Aftab upset number four seed Sohail Shahzad and eliminated him from the championship. Mohammad Asif played the only century break of the quarter-finals. He made a break of 110 against Ean Mark John. In the first quarter-final, Punjab’s Owais Munir defeated Sindh’s Abdul Sattar by 5-4. The frame scores were 112-16, 68-45, 36-76, 52-58, 71-13, 27-96, 66-27, 98-0and 73-64. In the second quarter-final, Punjab’s Mohammad Sajjad ousted Punjab’s Naseem Akhtar by 5-2. The frame scores were 0-87, 81-50, 20-79, 92-22, 80-13, 74-0and 57-0. In the penultimate quarterfinal, Shahid Aftab of Punjab overpowered number four seed Sohail Shahzad of Sindh by 5-4. The frame scores were 55-62, 55-44, 61-09, 7-71, 98-18, 12-66, 01-58, 56-04 and 76-65 in favor of the winner Shahid Aftab. In the fourth and last quarterfinal, Mohammad Asif of Punjab outclassed Ean Mark John of Sindh by 5-1 to reach the semifinal. The frame scores were 119-11, 68-57, 82-32, 80-23, 22-69 and 68-11 in favor of Mohammad Asif. The best-of-11 frames semifinals will be played on Friday, as the Awais Munir will face Mohammad Sajjad and Mohammad Asif will face Shahid Aftab. 

Sports Bulletin ReportLausanne (Switzerland): As Croatia prepares to host its first-ever FIH Indoor Hockey World Cup in Poreč from 3-9 February, the anticipation and excitement are palpable. This historic moment signifies a turning point for Croatian hockey, providing a platform to showcase the nation’s passion for the sport while inspiring the next generation of players.From Tradition to Opportunity: A New Era for Croatian HockeyDamir Hrupec, President of the Croatian Hockey Federation, reflects on the significance of this milestone: “The history of hockey in Croatia began way back in 1896, with the first field hockey demonstrations. This is a tradition that has been ongoing for 129 years. Hosting an FIH World Cup is a huge opportunity for hockey to grow in new regions and significantly increase the number of players. Our goal is to turn a small country like Croatia into a big hockey nation. We are ready to make this event a spectacular showcase of hockey and ensure we exceed all expectations.”Women’s Team: Dreams Becoming RealityFor the Croatian women’s team, this marks their debut on the global stage. Team captain Martina Petretić shares the pride and anticipation of this monumental event: “Playing at the World Cup is a dream come true for every athlete. It’s even more special that this event is hosted in our nation, and we’re ready to represent Croatia in the best light possible. The experience of playing at this level will be something we cherish forever.”Balancing both indoor and outdoor hockey, Martina believes the versatility gained from playing both formats supplements the team’s overall skills: “Indoor hockey enhances defensive techniques and dribbling in tight spaces, skills that are directly transferable to the outdoor game. The quick, precise decisions required in indoor hockey help us stay sharp in both formats.”Men’s Team: Rising to the ChallengeFor the Croatian men’s team, the pride of wearing their nation’s jersey is amplified by the opportunity to compete at home. Team captain Mario Mucić expresses his excitement: “Representing Croatia at the Indoor Hockey World Cup is a remarkable moment. We’ll give our best to represent our country and make our supporters proud.”Mario, talking about his love for the indoor hockey format, added: “Indoor hockey, with its faster pace and tighter spaces, enhances ball control, quick decision-making, and reaction times. It’s a dynamic game that improves goal-scoring and finishing abilities.”The team’s goal for the tournament is ambitious yet focused: “Our objective is to progress beyond the group stage. We’ll take it one match at a time, giving our all to make the most of each game.”

Lahore (PR): The Pakistan Cricket Board has announced a 27-day training camp for the Pakistan women cricketers in Multan to prepare for the ICC Women’s World Cup Qualifiers 2025. The camp will begin on Sunday, 2 February at the Inzamam-ul-Haq High Performance Centre, while the players and support staff will assemble on Saturday.A total of 31 players, including PCB’s 16 centrally contracted women cricketers, have been invited to the training camp, which involves regular sessions on fitness training, skill enhancement and seven 50-over practice matches throughout the month of February.The players will use the high-quality facilities available at the Inzamam-ul-Haq High-Performance Centre, while the matches will be played at the Multan Cricket Stadium. Head coach of Pakistan Women’s team and former Test cricketer Mohammad Wasim, who took up the role in July 2024, will lead the camp.Pakistan will feature in the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 Qualifiers along with Bangladesh, Ireland, Scotland, Thailand and West Indies, in a bid to qualify for the mega event. The finalists of the tournament will join the top six teams of the ICC Women’s Championship 2022-25 for the eight-team ICC Women’s World Cup.List of players invited to the camp:Batters – Aliya Riaz, Ayesha Zafar, Eyman Fatima, Gull Feroza, Gull Rukh, Hafsa Khalid, Iram Javed, Natalia Parvaiz, Sadaf Shamas, Saira Jebeen, Shawaal Zulfiqar, and Sidra Amin.Wicketkeepers – Muneeba Ali, Najiha Alvi and Sidra NawazAll-rounders – Fatima Sana, Omaima Sohail, Rameen Shamim, Syeda Aroob Shah, and Tuba HassanSpinners – Ghulam Fatima, Mahnoor Aftab, Nashra Sundhu, Sadia Iqbal, Tania Saeed, and Umm-e-HaniPacers – Diana Baig, Fatima Khan, Tasmia Rubab, Waheeda Akhtar and Zaib-un-Nisa Niaz.