All Posts in "Sports"

Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025: Pakistan and India to Clash on October 5 in Colombo

The unofficial schedule of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 has been leaked, revealing a host of thrilling matchups. With India set to host the event, the tournament is expected to begin on September 30, featuring India’s opening match against Sri Lanka in Bengaluru.

Due to the geopolitical context, Pakistan’s matches will not be played on Indian soil. Instead, Colombo will serve as the neutral venue for all of Pakistan’s games, adding an extra layer of intrigue to their fixtures.

A key highlight of the group stage is the much-awaited Pakistan vs India match, scheduled for October 5 in Colombo. The rivalry between these two cricketing powerhouses guarantees one of the most electric atmospheres in women’s cricket.

Pakistan’s tentative group stage schedule includes:

  • October 2: Pakistan vs Bangladesh
  • October 5: Pakistan vs India
  • October 8: Pakistan vs Australia
  • October 15: Pakistan vs England
  • October 18: Pakistan vs New Zealand
  • October 21: Pakistan vs South Africa
  • October 24: Pakistan vs Sri Lanka

In addition to these fixtures, discussions are ongoing about the semi-final and final venues. Current plans suggest that the first semi-final could be held in Guwahati or Colombo, while Bengaluru is being considered for the second. The final match of the tournament is tentatively set for November 2, with either Bengaluru or Colombo likely to host.

Despite the lack of an official announcement from the ICC, the preliminary schedule has triggered considerable excitement among fans and stakeholders. The return of the India-Pakistan face-off, this time on neutral turf, adds another layer of drama and significance to the upcoming World Cup.

Sajal Subhan by — June 16, 2025 in Cricket
PSL 10: Lahore Qalandars Make Final Without Head Coach, Eye Historic Title

The Lahore Qalandars have pulled off an astonishing run in PSL 10, making it to the tournament final without the presence of their appointed head coach, Russell Domingo.

The revelation came from team executive Sameen Rana, who confirmed that the South African coach had not returned after the mid-season break.

“Russell has not been with us since the second half began. We’ve had to operate without a formal head coach,” Rana said.

Shaheen Afridi Leads From the Front

Without Domingo’s tactical guidance, Shaheen Shah Afridi has taken on a broader leadership role. The fast-bowling skipper has not only led with the ball but also kept the dressing room atmosphere focused and unified.

This leadership has translated into back-to-back knockout victories against Karachi Kings and Islamabad United, two high-pressure games that showcased the team’s adaptability and mental resilience.

Senior Players Drive Strategy

The likes of Fakhar Zaman, Sikandar Raza, and Rashid Khan (if available) have stepped up as tactical mentors in the absence of official coaching staff, contributing to game-planning and on-field decisions. The blend of local talent and experienced internationals has created an organic leadership model that’s worked surprisingly well.

Will Domingo Return?

The team has remained tight-lipped on Domingo’s future. Some insiders believe his role may be quietly coming to an end, particularly given the team’s improved performance without him.

If Lahore clinch the title, it will mark a new chapter in the league’s history—a championship won without a head coach, something unheard of in professional T20 cricket.

Lahore’s Moment of Destiny

Lahore Qalandars now prepare to face Quetta Gladiators in what could be a crowning moment for this franchise. With or without a coach, the team has shown they are built for the big occasion.

Afshan Ibrahim by — May 24, 2025 in Cricket
Sindh Governor Honors Pakistan Blind Cricket Team for T20 World Cup Glory

Governor Tessori’s Heartfelt Recognition

In a moving ceremony at the Governor House in Karachi, Governor Sindh Kamran Tessori celebrated Pakistan’s blind cricket team for their historic victory in the Blind T20 World Cup. Tessori awarded a cash prize of PKR 500,000 to the team, praising their exceptional determination and resilience.

The governor described the players as “national heroes,” acknowledging their undefeated performance throughout the tournament. “Their victory is a gift to the nation,” he remarked, emphasizing their unwavering spirit.

Promising More Support

Beyond the initial cash prize, Tessori pledged to work with the Sindh Government to secure an additional PKR 500,000 for each player. This promise highlights the importance of their achievement, which has brought pride and joy to the entire country.

Breaking Records and Making History

Last month, Pakistan’s blind cricket team made history by claiming their first-ever Blind T20 World Cup title. They defeated Bangladesh in the final with an extraordinary 10-wicket win, ending India’s dominance in the competition. Previously, India had won the title three times in a row.

A Boost for Blind Cricket in Pakistan

The team’s monumental victory has shone a spotlight on blind cricket in Pakistan, encouraging greater support and recognition for differently-abled athletes. Government officials and cricket authorities have lauded the players, vowing to further develop facilities and opportunities for such talented individuals.

Nationwide Inspiration

The triumph is not just a cricketing milestone; it is a beacon of hope for the entire differently-abled community in Pakistan. It demonstrates that with passion and perseverance, even the greatest challenges can be overcome, setting a new benchmark for future athletes.

Web Desk by — January 11, 2025 in Cricket
Lionel Messi Honored with 2024 MLS MVP Award

Lionel Messi’s Stellar Debut Season in MLS


Lionel Messi has added another remarkable accolade to his illustrious career by claiming the 2024 Landon Donovan MLS Most Valuable Player (MVP) award. The announcement, made on Friday, celebrates Messi’s breathtaking debut season in Major League Soccer with Inter Miami.

After joining the league in July 2023, Messi made an instant impact, delivering a jaw-dropping performance. The Argentine superstar recorded 20 goals and 16 assists in just 19 matches, propelling Inter Miami to an impressive 74-point finish, securing the coveted Supporters’ Shield as the league’s best regular-season team.

A Bitter End to a Dream Season


Despite his record-breaking campaign, Messi experienced a bittersweet moment while accepting the MVP award. “I would have liked to celebrate this with a championship,” Messi shared during the ceremony. “Our dream was to lift the MLS Cup this year, but we’ll return stronger next season to chase it again.”

Historical Achievement for Inter Miami


At 37, Messi has become the first Inter Miami player to win the MLS MVP award. This honor, named after league legend Landon Donovan, further cements Messi’s legacy as one of football’s all-time greats. He joins an exclusive group of players, including Carlos Vela and Sebastian Giovinco, who have achieved the rare feat of scoring at least 20 goals and 15 assists in a single MLS season.

Fierce Competition for the Crown


Messi’s journey to the top was not without challenges. He faced stiff competition from talents like Cucho Hernandez (Columbus Crew), Evander (Portland Timbers), and even his Inter Miami teammate Luis Suarez. However, Messi’s unmatched contribution to Miami’s historic season made him the clear choice.

What’s Next for Messi and Miami?
While their playoff run ended earlier than expected, Messi has set the stage for a highly anticipated 2025 season. With the Club World Cup on the horizon and the MLS Cup still in their sights, Messi and Inter Miami are gearing up for another groundbreaking year.

Sajal Subhan by — December 7, 2024 in News
Pakistan’s Inter-Provincial Games Make a Comeback in Islamabad Next Month

December Brings Inter-Provincial Games to Islamabad, Showcasing Pakistan’s Athletic Unity

The Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) has announced the highly anticipated return of the Inter-Provincial Games, scheduled to be held in Islamabad beginning December 13. After a seven-year pause, these Games will once again unite over 3,000 athletes and officials from every province and territory of Pakistan, celebrating athletic skill and strengthening bonds among regions.

Comprehensive Preparations for a Seamless Experience

Extensive planning is underway to accommodate the athletes and officials, with the PSB investing in upgrading facilities, enhancing logistics, and collaborating with provincial teams. With competitions across a range of sports, the Games will provide athletes an ideal platform to represent their regions and make their mark on a national level.

Leadership and Vision for Pakistani Sports

Yasir Pirzada, Director General of PSB, highlighted the board’s commitment to bringing back this event, stating, “The Inter-Provincial Games are a testament to our dedication to fostering unity and nurturing talent. After seven years, we’re proud to offer athletes a renewed stage where they can demonstrate their skills and compete in the spirit of healthy sportsmanship.”

At a time when Pakistan’s athletes face limited opportunities for national and international exposure, the return of the Inter-Provincial Games represents a renewed focus on sports development within the country. This event is not only a celebration of talent but also a crucial step in reviving the nation’s sports ecosystem, encouraging athletic potential across the provinces. All eyes will be on Islamabad this December as it hosts an inspiring display of talent, sportsmanship, and provincial pride.

Suboohi by — November 6, 2024 in News
Introducing the NIKE Flight Ball: Premier League’s 2024/25 Season Game-Changer

Nike has revealed the Premier League ball for the 2024/25 season, the ‘NIKE Flight’. This innovative football will be the focal point of every match, featuring design elements that celebrate the iconic graphics of previous Premier League balls.

Aerowsculpt Technology for Precision

The NIKE Flight ball is engineered with Aerowsculpt technology, which includes strategically placed grooves on the ball’s surface. These grooves facilitate smoother air movement around the ball, resulting in a more predictable and accurate flight path. This advancement in ball design promises to enhance the performance and precision of every match, giving players a reliable tool for their gameplay.

Debut Match

The new Premier League season will commence with the NIKE Flight ball on Friday, August 16th, with Manchester United taking on Fulham at Old Trafford. This inaugural match of the 2024/25 season will not only set the tone for the months to come but will also showcase the capabilities of the NIKE Flight ball in a competitive setting for the first time.

Celebrating 25 Years with Nike

This season’s launch is especially noteworthy as it celebrates 25 years of Nike being the official ball supplier for the Premier League. Over these years, Nike has continually introduced groundbreaking innovations in football technology and design. The NIKE Flight ball is a testament to this enduring legacy, combining the latest in aerodynamics with a nod to the Premier League’s storied past.

Elevating the Game

The NIKE Flight ball, with its advanced technology and historical homage, is poised to become a central part of the Premier League’s tradition. Anticipation is high among fans and players, who are eager to experience the enhanced quality and excitement the ball is expected to bring to the game. The NIKE Flight ball is set to redefine the standard of play, making each match more exhilarating and memorable.

Sajal Subhan by — July 23, 2024 in News
PCB Announces Shan Masood as Captain for Bangladesh Test Series

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has confirmed that Shan Masood will continue as the captain of the national team for the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi made this announcement on Thursday, emphasizing Masood’s leadership qualities and positive feedback received regarding his captaincy.

In a media briefing, Naqvi mentioned that he had a video call with Masood to discuss strategies and improvements for the team in Test cricket. He clarified that there were no plans to replace Masood as the Test captain, reaffirming the board’s confidence in his abilities.

Regarding the venues for the Bangladesh Test series, Naqvi stated that the PCB has finalized either Multan, Karachi, or Rawalpindi as potential venues, as Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore is currently undergoing upgrades.

The upcoming two-match series between Pakistan and Bangladesh holds significance as part of the ICC Test Championship 2023-2025.

Web Desk by — July 4, 2024 in Cricket
HBL PSL 2024: Bigger, Better, and Back in February!

Cricket fans, get ready for a T20 feast! The Pakistan Super League (PSL) is roaring back for its ninth season, kicking off on February 17th, 2024. This year, the action goes beyond boundaries, with matches across four vibrant cities: Karachi, Lahore, Multan, and Rawalpindi.

Defending Champions Lahore Qalandars Clash with Rivals:

The tournament promises electrifying matchups, with defending champions Lahore Qalandars facing off against their arch-rivals Islamabad United in the opening match. Prepare for fireworks when Lahore and Karachi Kings clash on February 24th and March 9th!

More Matches, More Cities, More Fun:

Get ready for 34 action-packed matches, spread across two legs. The first leg (February 17-27) brings the heat to Lahore and Multan, while the second leg (February 28-March 12) takes over Rawalpindi and Karachi. The playoffs and final will be an exclusive Karachi affair, culminating in a grand finale at the National Bank Stadium on March 18th.

Your Favorite Teams, Your Hometown Heroes:

Each team will play five matches at their home ground, giving fans a chance to cheer on their local heroes. Peshawar Zalmi takes over Pindi Cricket Stadium, while Quetta Gladiators will split their matches between Karachi, Lahore, and Multan.

PCB Management Committee Chair Mr. Zaka Ashraf:

“We’re thrilled to bring PSL back bigger and better! Hosting matches across four cities brings top-notch cricket to fans nationwide. We aim to not only entertain but also inspire young players at the grassroots level.”

Mark Your Calendars, Book Your Tickets:

Get ready to witness cricketing magic unfold! Pakistan Super League 2024 promises a thrilling tournament, packed with fierce rivalries, spectacular performances, and unforgettable moments. So, grab your PSL gear, get your friends together, and cheer on your favorite teams!

Don’t miss the first match on February 17th!

PSL 2024 Schedule:

(Note: Included only the first few matches for brevity)

  • February 17: Lahore Qalandars vs. Islamabad United (Lahore)
  • February 18: Quetta Gladiators vs. Peshawar Zalmi (Lahore), Multan Sultans vs. Karachi Kings (Multan)
  • February 19: Lahore Qalandars vs. Quetta Gladiators (Lahore)
  • February 20: Multan Sultans vs. Islamabad United (Multan)
  • February 21: Peshawar Zalmi vs. Karachi Kings (Lahore)

Stay tuned for the complete schedule and updates!

Sajal Subhan by — January 13, 2024 in Cricket
Former Cricketer Basit Ali Believes Pakistan Can Conquer Australia

Former Pakistani cricketer Basit Ali has expressed his confidence in Pakistan’s ability to defeat Australia in the upcoming three-match Test series, despite Pakistan’s poor historical record in Australia.

“Playing in Australia is not as difficult as it is often portrayed to be,” Ali stated on the ARY News show Sports Room. He urged the Pakistani players to adopt a fearless and winning mindset, similar to India’s approach, to secure victory.

Ali praised the Pakistani team’s top-order batsmen, highlighting their consistent performances in Test cricket over the past year. He also expressed optimism about Babar Azam’s performance, predicting that the former captain will thrive at number four without the pressure of captaincy.

Regarding the pitches, Ali noted that Australian tracks have become less bouncy in recent years, with conditions in Sydney and Melbourne resembling those in Asia. He believes that these conditions will favor Pakistan’s spinners and give them a good chance of winning in those cities.

Ali’s comments have injected a dose of optimism into the Pakistani camp ahead of the crucial Test series. Pakistan will undoubtedly look to break their losing streak in Australia and make a bold statement with a series victory.

Afshan Ibrahim by — December 1, 2023 in Cricket
Why football is not growing in Pakistan?

Football is a popular sport in many countries around the world, but not so much in Pakistan. Why is that? What are the factors that prevent football from becoming more popular and successful in Pakistan? In this blog post, I will try to answer these questions and explore some of the challenges and opportunities for football in Pakistan.

One of the main reasons why football is not growing in Pakistan is the lack of infrastructure and facilities. There are not enough stadiums, pitches, coaches, referees, equipment, and training programs for football players and fans. Most of the existing facilities are in poor condition and do not meet international standards. This makes it hard for players to develop their skills and for fans to enjoy the game.

Another reason why football is not growing in Pakistan is the lack of support and investment from the government and the private sector. Football is not seen as a priority or a profitable venture by the authorities and the sponsors. There is no clear vision or strategy for developing football in Pakistan. There is also a lack of coordination and cooperation among the different stakeholders involved in football, such as the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF), the provincial associations, the clubs, the schools, and the media.

A third reason why football is not growing in Pakistan is the lack of exposure and awareness. Football is not widely covered by the mainstream media or taught in schools. There are few opportunities for young players to showcase their talent and for fans to watch local or international matches. There is also a lack of role models and idols for aspiring footballers and enthusiasts. There are no Pakistani players playing in top leagues or clubs abroad, and no Pakistani teams participating in major tournaments or competitions.

These are some of the reasons why football is not growing in Pakistan. However, this does not mean that there is no hope or potential for football in Pakistan. There are many passionate and talented players and fans who love football and want to see it grow and flourish in Pakistan. There are also some initiatives and efforts being made by various individuals and organizations to promote and develop football in Pakistan. For example, there are some grassroots programs that aim to provide opportunities and access to football for underprivileged children and youth. There are also some private leagues and tournaments that attract sponsors and media attention. There are also some international collaborations and exchanges that expose Pakistani players and coaches to foreign expertise and experience.

These are some of the challenges and opportunities for football in Pakistan. I hope that this blog post has given you some insight into why football is not growing in Pakistan and what can be done to change that. I also hope that you will join me in supporting and cheering for football in Pakistan. Together, we can make football grow and thrive in Pakistan.

Suboohi by — July 4, 2023 in Blogs