Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha congratulated the Indian Cricket Team for winning the Asia Cup 2025, defeating Pakistan in the finals.
In a post on X, the Office of LG wrote: “Well done, Team India! Congratulations for lifting the Asia Cup 2025. Your exemplary teamwork, determination, consistent performance, and the winning spirit have made the entire nation proud.”
India’s in-form opener Abhishek Sharma is on the cusp of creating history as Team India gears up for the high-stakes Asia Cup final against Pakistan in Dubai on Sunday. The youngster’s explosive run with the bat has put him within touching distance of eclipsing records held by T20I greats Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Pakistan’s Mohammed Rizwan. Heading into the tournament, there was excitement about Abhishek Sharma, as he had delivered several strong performances in two seasons in the Indian Premier League (IPL), pairing alongside Australian all-format star Travis Head. The two delivered skyrocketing starts for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). Abhishek has scored the most runs in the Asia Cup, with 309 runs at an average of 51.50 and a strike rate of 204.63, including three fifties and a best score of 75, all of which came in succession during the Super Four stage. He stands just 11 runs away from breaking Virat Kohli’s record of most runs by an Indian during a multi-nation T20I tournament. Dubai stadium houseful for India-Pakistan Asia Cup title clash Also, Abhishek is just 23 runs away from torching England opener Phil Salt’s record for most runs by a batter from a Test-playing nation in a T20I tournament or series. Back in 2023, during a tour to the West Indies, Salt had smashed 331 runs in five T20Is at an average of 82.75 and a strike rate of 185.95, with two centuries and a best score of 119. Abhishek is tied with Rohit Sharma (November 2021 to February 2022) and Rizwan (April to October 2021) for most successive 30-plus scores in T20s, with a total of seven such scores; another 30-plus score could help him leapfrog these two stars. This year in T20I, Abhishek has delivered aggression and consistency, with 588 runs in 11 matches at an average of 53.45 and a strike rate of 211.51, with a century and four fifties. His overall stats in T20Is include 844 runs in 23 matches and 22 innings at an average of 38.36, with a strike rate of 197.65, with two centuries and five fifties and a best score of 135. (ANI)
In the high-stakes world of international cricket, few things sting more than a string of failures under the spotlight. For Pakistan’s young opener Saim Ayub, the Asia Cup 2025 has turned into a personal horror story. The 23-year-old, once touted as the “golden boy” of Pakistani cricket for his explosive domestic performances, has now etched his name into the record books for all the wrong reasons. With four ducks in just six innings, Ayub has become the first top-order batter in any T20I tournament to achieve this unwanted feat. His dismal run has not only jeopardized Pakistan’s batting lineup but also ignited a firestorm of criticism from fans, who have taken to social media to vent their frustrations.
As Pakistan gears up for the final against arch-rivals India on September 28, 2025, in Dubai, questions loom over Ayub’s place in the team. Despite his batting woes, his contributions with the ball have offered some redemption, but is it enough to silence the doubters? This article delves into Ayub’s Asia Cup campaign, his career trajectory, the fan backlash, and what lies ahead for the embattled youngster.
A Dismal Batting Campaign: Breaking Down the Numbers
Saim Ayub’s Asia Cup 2025 started with promise but quickly unraveled into a series of early dismissals. Across six innings, he has managed a paltry 23 runs at an average of just 3.83 and a strike rate of 85.19. His lone double-digit score was a 21-run knock against India in the Super Four stage, but even that came amid pressure. The rest? A parade of zeros:
Match
Opponent
Runs
Balls Faced
Dismissal Type
Group Stage
Oman
0
1
Duck
Group Stage
India
0
1
Duck
Group Stage
UAE
0
2
Duck
Super Four
India
21
14
–
Super Four
Sri Lanka
2
5
–
Super Four
Bangladesh
0
3
Duck (caught at mid-on off Mahedi Hasan)
This fourth duck against Bangladesh on September 25 not only sealed his record but also tied him for the most T20I ducks in a calendar year (six in 2025), matching Zimbabwe’s Richard Ngarava from 2024. In the broader context of his T20I career, Ayub has now registered nine ducks in 45 innings—a 20% duck rate—surpassing legends like Shahid Afridi (eight in 90 innings) and trailing only Umar Akmal (10 in 79).
Critics point to Ayub’s aggressive style as the culprit. Often criticized for lacking patience, he has failed to build innings, putting undue pressure on the middle order. In the Bangladesh match, Pakistan slumped to 71/6 before recovering to 135, which they defended to secure their final spot. Yet, amid the batting collapse, Ayub shone with the ball, claiming 2/16 in four overs—his best economy in the tournament and a reminder of his all-round potential.
Throughout the Asia Cup, Ayub’s bowling has been a silver lining. He has taken wickets consistently, including six in one match earlier in the tournament, proving his value as a left-arm spinner in Asian conditions. His T20I bowling record stands at 16 wickets in 47 matches at an average of 15.81. As former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif noted, Ayub’s dual skills make him a “valuable asset,” predicting he could “either break or break records” in high-pressure games like the upcoming final.
Fan Backlash: From Hype to Hashtags
Once celebrated for his PSL exploits—where he was the top run-scorer for Peshawar Zalmi in 2023-24 with strike rates exceeding 157—Ayub has become a target for fan ire. Social media platforms, especially X (formerly Twitter), have exploded with memes, trolls, and calls for his axing. Hashtags like #DuckAyub and #SaimAyubOut trended post the Bangladesh game, reflecting widespread disappointment.
Fans didn’t hold back:
“Saim Ayub is the most overhyped youngster in the history of T20 cricket. More ducks than there are ducks in the world.”
“The Eggetarian has scored 4 ducks in this Asia Cup. Good source of protein for his health.”
“Saim Ayub should take retirement from the national team. RN He is not ready to take international cricket pressure.”
“Why the hell is Saim Ayub in this team? They kicked out Hassan Nawaz, a promising talent, and kept that shithead.”
Humorous takes abounded too: “Saim Ayub came to open the innings and opened the duck register instead,” or suggestions he start a “duck farming business” after retirement. One viral post mocked his pre-tournament hype: “Saim Ayub was about to hit Bumrah for 6 sixes but ended up scoring Four Ducks in a single Asia Cup.” This stems from ex-cricketer Tanveer Ahmed’s bold claim before the tournament that Ayub would smash Jasprit Bumrah for six sixes—a prediction that now seems laughable.
The backlash extends beyond X. On Reddit, users debated his obsession with all-rounders, with one commenting, “Saim has been pretty underwhelming so far in his t20 career.” Fans accuse selectors of favoritism (“Parchi”), demanding the return of proven openers like Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan to the top order.
Expert Opinions and Comparisons
Experts have drawn parallels between Ayub and Shahid Afridi, noting similarities in their aggressive styles and inconsistent batting. Ayub’s T20I average of 19.97 is just a couple of runs higher than Afridi’s, and like “Boom Boom,” he’s increasingly relying on his bowling to justify his spot. Aakash Chopra suggested Ayub “go hell for leather” to break his rut, emphasizing his potential in big games.
PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi’s faith in Ayub has been questioned, especially after dropping more consistent players. However, some defend him, highlighting his utility: “Saim Ayub came as a hope, but turned into a habitual collapse. Time to face reality – Pakistan can’t afford passengers in big tournaments!” Yet, his bowling impact—zero boundaries conceded against Bangladesh—keeps him in contention.
Looking Ahead: Redemption or the End?
With the T20 World Cup 2026 on the horizon, Ayub’s spot hangs by a thread. Another failure in the final could cement his “King of Ducks” legacy and force selectors to rethink. Pakistan’s management must weigh his all-round value against batting reliability. As one expert put it, “His name is now trending in Pakistan, with thousands of fans celebrating his role in Pakistan’s Asia Cup journey.” But for Ayub, the final against India offers a chance to flip the script—or face the axe.
In cricket, form is temporary, but records endure. Whether Ayub emerges stronger or fades remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the Asia Cup 2025 has tested him like never before.
Football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo extended warm wishes to his fans in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday, celebrating the country’s National Day. Sharing a message on his official Twitter handle, Ronaldo wrote:
“Happy Saudi National Day to everyone in Saudi Arabia! 🇸🇦 Wishing you a day filled with pride, unity, and celebration with your loved ones.”
The post quickly garnered thousands of likes and retweets, highlighting Ronaldo’s global popularity and his connection with fans in the Middle East.
Saudi National Day, celebrated annually on September 23, marks the unification of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia by King Abdulaziz in 1932. The day is observed with nationwide festivities, including cultural events, parades, and public celebrations.
Ronaldo’s message adds to the growing trend of international sports personalities acknowledging significant national occasions, strengthening their engagement with fans worldwide.His gesture was widely appreciated by Saudi fans, with many expressing their excitement and gratitude on social media.
Cristiano Ronaldo, currently playing in Saudi Arabia, has become a prominent figure in the region, both for his sporting achievements and his influence off the field.
The Indian opening pair of Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill made history on Sunday, forming the highest partnership for India against Pakistan while opening in T20Is.
Abhishek and Gill stitched a partnership of 105 runs in just a little less than 10 overs during the run chase of 172 runs at Dubai.
They went past a stand between Gautam Gambhir and Ajinkya Rahane against Pakistan back in 2012 at Bengaluru, when they put up 77 runs while opening.
This was also the first-ever 100-plus run partnership for any team, for any wicket during the ongoing Asia Cup.
During the match, India won the toss and elected to field first. After Pakistan lost Fakhar Zaman, a quickfire 72-run stand followed between Sahibzada Farhan (58 in 45 balls, with five fours and three sixes) and Saim Ayub (21 in 17 balls, with a four and six) put Pakistan ahead. Later, knocks from Mohammed Nawaz (21 in 19 balls, with a four and six) and Faheem Ashraf (20* in eight balls, with a four and two sixes) took Pakistan to 171/5 in 20 overs.
Shivam Dube (2/33) was the pick of the bowlers for India, while Kuldeep Yadav and Hardik Pandya got one each.
During the run-chase of 172, Abhishek Sharma (74 in 39 balls, with six fours and five sixes) and Shubman Gill (47 in 28 balls, with eight fours) took Pakistan out of the game in the first ten overs.
While Haris Rauf (2/26) tried to fight it out for Pakistan, Tilak Varma (30* in 19 balls, with two fours and two sixes) and Hardik (7*) took India to a win with seven balls left.Abhishek secured the ‘Player of the Match’ award for his explosive knock. (ANI)
The much-anticipated Vice Chancellor’s Employee Cricket Tournament – 2025 concluded with great enthusiasm and sportsmanship. The School of Engineering and Technology lifted the Champions Trophy under the able captaincy of Prof. A. H. Moon, defeating the School of Health Sciences in a thrilling final.
The Chief Guest, Prof. Parvez Mir Director CIED, graced the closing ceremony, while Prof. Yasmeen Aahai, Dr. Shiekh Imran, Dr. Peer Bilal, and the Senior Proctor were present as Guests of Honour.
In his address, Mr. Murshid Khan, Officer In-charge, Directorate of Physical Education & Sports (DPE&S), applauded the tireless efforts of the Directorate in successfully organizing the tournament and highlighted the importance of sports in fostering teamwork and wellness among employees.
Earlier, Dr. Hilal Ahmad Rather, Assistant Director, DPE&S, welcomed the dignitaries and extended heartfelt thanks to all those who contributed to the success of the event.He also carried out the concluding ceremony. The tournament’s inaugural proceedings were carried out by Dr. Mubashir, Assistant Director, DPE&S.
The smooth conduct of the final was ensured by the match referees, Mr. Majid Nazir Mukhdoomi, Senior Sports Assistant, and Mr. Altaf Hussain Shah, Sports Assistant, who supervised the game with fairness and professionalism.
The Vice Chancellor’s Employee Cricket Tournament once again highlighted the university’s commitment to promoting sports, camaraderie, and healthy competition among its employees.
Pakistan Women vs South Africa Women: Cricket fans! It’s a cracking day for women’s cricket as Pakistan take on South Africa in the first of three ODIs at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium. It’s Tuesday, 16 September 2025, and as I write this at 5:24 PM IST, the toss is done – Pakistan chose to bat, and the game’s just underway with the first ball bowled at 3:30 PM PKT. This series is a big deal, not just for bragging rights but as a warm-up for the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup starting in two weeks in India and Sri Lanka. With free entry to the stadium and a buzzing atmosphere, let’s dive into what makes this clash a must-watch, who’s playing, and how it sets the stage for the World Cup. I’ll keep it simple, like we’re chatting over a cup of tea.
Why This Series Matters
This isn’t just another set of matches. It’s the final stretch before the eight-team Women’s World Cup (30 September to 2 November 2025), where Pakistan will play all their group games in Sri Lanka. The flat, batting-friendly pitches at Gaddafi are perfect for testing skills in conditions similar to Sri Lanka’s.<grok:render type=”render_inline_citation”> 6</grok:render> South Africa, on their third tour of Pakistan in three years, are using this to fine-tune after prepping here for the 2024 T20 World Cup and last year’s ODI World Cup cycle.<grok:render type=”render_inline_citation”> 5</grok:render>
Both teams are part of the ICC Women’s Championship 2022-25, and their last meeting in Karachi on 14 September 2023 saw Pakistan pull off a stunning eight-wicket win, chasing down South Africa’s total with ease.<grok:render type=”render_inline_citation”> 11</grok:render> That upset has given the hosts a confidence boost, but South Africa lead the head-to-head with 21 wins in 28 ODIs.<grok:render type=”render_inline_citation”> 0</grok:render> With the World Cup looming, every run and wicket here is a chance to lock in strategies and sort out any weak spots.
Here’s the schedule for the series, all at Gaddafi Stadium:
These day-night games under the Lahore lights promise plenty of drama, especially with spin likely to play a big role on these pitches.
Meet the Teams: Stars and New Faces
Pakistan’s squad, led by the fiery all-rounder Fatima Sana, is a mix of seasoned players and fresh talent. They’ve been grafting hard in a two-week training camp in Lahore, focusing on batting to back up their famously strong bowling attack.<grok:render type=”render_inline_citation”> 7</grok:render> The 15-member team includes one uncapped player, Eyman Fatima, who made waves on her T20I debut against Ireland in August 2025.<grok:render type=”render_inline_citation”> 0</grok:render> Here’s the full lineup:
Key players to watch? Aliya Riaz is a batting powerhouse against South Africa, with 351 runs in 11 ODIs, including three half-centuries.<grok:render type=”render_inline_citation”> 0</grok:render> In bowling, left-arm spinner Nashra Sundhu has been a thorn in the Proteas’ side, taking 16 wickets in 12 matches at an economy of just 3.91.<grok:render type=”render_inline_citation”> 0</grok:render> Sadia Iqbal, another spinner, could team up with Nashra to exploit the turning track. Fatima Sana herself is no slouch – she took 12 wickets in the 2025 World Cup Qualifier, earning a spot in the tournament’s dream team.<grok:render type=”render_inline_citation”> 8</grok:render>
South Africa, captained by the stylish Laura Wolvaardt, bring a squad brimming with class. Marizanne Kapp is their trump card – a world-class all-rounder with 167 ODI wickets at 24.47 and the ability to smash big runs.<grok:render type=”render_inline_citation”> 6</grok:render> Tazmin Brits has been their top batter in 2025, piling up 371 runs, while young spinner Nonkululeko Mlaba has 13 wickets this year.<grok:render type=”render_inline_citation”> 8</grok:render> They’ve struggled in ODIs recently, winning just three of seven games in 2025, so they’ll be keen to hit their stride.<grok:render type=”render_inline_citation”> 10</grok:render>
Pakistan’s support staff, including head coach Muhammad Wasim and bowling coaches Junaid Khan and Tahir Khan, have been drilling the team on everything from spin tactics to fielding sharpness.<grok:render type=”render_inline_citation”> 0</grok:render> South Africa, meanwhile, are banking on their experience in subcontinental conditions to counter Pakistan’s spin threat.
What the Captains Are Saying
Fatima Sana was all smiles talking to PCB Digital: “A series like this is brilliant for us before the World Cup. It’s a chance to test everything we’ve worked on. Everyone knows our bowling is strong, but we’ve put a lot into our batting during the camp, and I’m excited to see it pay off.”<grok:render type=”render_inline_citation”> 0</grok:render><grok:render type=”render_inline_citation”> 7</grok:render> She’s got a point – Pakistan’s batting, led by the likes of Sidra Amin and Muneeba Ali, needs to fire to match their bowlers’ magic.
Laura Wolvaardt kept it real: “This series is key for our World Cup prep. The pitches here are like what we’ll face in Sri Lanka, so it’s perfect practice. Pakistan have some great batters who handle spin well, so we’re expecting a tough fight.”<grok:render type=”render_inline_citation”> 0</grok:render><grok:render type=”render_inline_citation”> 11</grok:render> She’s not wrong – Pakistan’s ability to play spin could be the game-changer.
The Pitch and Conditions: Runs or Spin Show?
Gaddafi Stadium’s pitch is a batter’s paradise – hard, flat, and true, perfect for stroke-makers like Wolvaardt or Pakistan’s Shawaal Zulfiqar.<grok:render type=”render_inline_citation”> 6</grok:render> But as the ball gets older, spinners like Nashra and Sadia could make life tricky, especially in the middle overs. With clear skies in Lahore today (yep, I checked the weather!), it’s set for a full 50-over slugfest.<grok:render type=”render_inline_citation”> 3</grok:render> Pakistan’s choice to bat first suggests they’re backing their top order to set a big total.
How to Catch the Action
If you’re in Lahore, grab your ID card – entry is free! Families and women can head to the Fazal Mahmood enclosure at the Jinnah End, while men and students fill the Saeed Anwar section.<grok:render type=”render_inline_citation”> 0</grok:render> For those watching from home, here’s where to tune in:
Pakistan: A Sports (HD) or Tamasha for live streaming
Middle East & North Africa: Sportainment
Africa: Super Sports
Global (outside Pakistan): Sports Central
North America: Willow TV <grok:render type=”render_inline_citation”> 0</grok:render><grok:render type=”render_inline_citation”> 9</grok:render>
The broadcast is top-notch with 11 HD cameras, and you’ll hear insights from a cracking commentary team: Ali Younis, Ejaz Ahmed, Kainat Imtiaz, Salman Butt, and Sikandar Bakht.<grok:render type=”render_inline_citation”> 0</grok:render> PCB’s YouTube channel is also streaming it live – check their X posts for links.<grok:render type=”render_inline_citation”> 3</grok:render>
The Bigger Picture: World Cup Glory on the Horizon
Pakistan come in flying high after dominating the 2025 World Cup Qualifier, but their batting has been a weak link at times.<grok:render type=”render_inline_citation”> 8</grok:render> This series is their chance to prove they can post big totals, not just rely on bowlers like Diana Baig or Syeda Aroob Shah. South Africa, meanwhile, need their middle order to click – if Kapp and Wolvaardt fire, they’re tough to stop.<grok:render type=”render_inline_citation”> 10</grok:render>
X is buzzing with fans hyping up #BackOurGirls, with some calling Fatima Sana the next big thing in women’s cricket.<grok:render type=”render_inline_citation”> 0</grok:render> Others reckon South Africa’s experience might edge it. Either way, this series is a cracking prelude to the World Cup.
So, who’s got your vote today? Pakistan to keep their home streak alive, or South Africa to spoil the party? Drop a comment – I’m all ears for your predictions. Let’s enjoy this one – it’s going to be a belter!
If you’ve been following international cricket lately, one name is everywhere – Sufiyan Muqeem. At just 25, this left-arm wrist spinner from Pakistan has gone from street cricket in Azad Kashmir to climbing the ICC rankings and breaking records. And with the Asia Cup 2025 underway, he’s right in the spotlight, bowling alongside the big guns and facing India’s Kuldeep Yadav in a battle fans can’t wait to see.
From Tape Ball Streets to Professional Pitches
Sufiyan was born on 15 November 1999 in Baithak Balouch, Sudhanoti District, Azad Kashmir. Like many kids there, he started with tape-ball cricket – cheap, fast, and full of flair. Hungry for better opportunities, he moved to Rawalpindi, where he entered Pakistan’s club scene.
What sets him apart? His release point is almost vertical – around “12 o’clock” – which makes the ball dip sharply and confuses batters trying to sweep. Analysts often compare him to Tabraiz Shamsi, Kuldeep Yadav, and Noor Ahmad, but with his own twist.
By 2023, he had already taken a fifer for just three runs in domestic cricket. Even after knee surgery in 2024, he came back stronger – proof of the resilience selectors love.
Breaking Records: The No. 12 Knock
April 2025, Hamilton, New Zealand: Pakistan were 174/9 chasing 293. Thanks to a concussion sub for Haris Rauf, Sufiyan walked in at No. 12 – a rare sight in ODIs.
He smashed 13 off 10 balls, including a four and a six, becoming the first player ever to score double-digits at No. 12 in ODIs. Earlier, he had bowled 2/33, including the key wicket of Daryl Mitchell.
Pakistan lost, but Sufiyan walked into cricketing folklore. Wisden called it “a slice of history.”
Record Spells and Stats That Matter
His bowling has been just as eye-catching. In December 2024, against Zimbabwe in a T20I, he ripped through the hosts with 5/3, bowling them out for 57 – Pakistan’s best ever T20I figures.
Here’s a snapshot of his international career (as of September 2025):
Format
Matches
Wickets
Best Figures
Economy
Batting Highlight
ODIs
5
8
2/33
4.50
13* at No. 12 (vs NZ, 2025)
T20Is
12
22
5/3 (vs ZIM, 2024)
5.20
5*
Overall Intl
17
30
–
–
–
He also starred in the ACC Emerging Teams Asia Cup 2023, where Pakistan A beat India A in the final, with Sufiyan taking 3/66.
On the ICC charts, he is now Pakistan’s highest-ranked T20I bowler, and the only one in the top 20.
Asia Cup 2025: Spotlight on India Clash
This month in the UAE, Sufiyan is part of Pakistan’s spin trio with Abrar Ahmed and Mohammad Nawaz. The biggest headline? His battle with Kuldeep Yadav – the first time two left-arm wrist spinners face off in an India-Pakistan clash.
Kuldeep has drift and flight, Sufiyan has sharp dip and accuracy. Fans on X (formerly Twitter) are buzzing: “Sufiyan Muqeem is the x-factor Pakistan needs!”
Still, debate continues. Some argue Abrar deserves more overs, while others believe Sufiyan brings the perfect balance. Either way, he’s in the middle of the conversation.
Why Sufiyan Matters
For decades, Pakistan’s identity has been pace – from Wasim Akram to Shaheen Afridi. But with Shadab Khan struggling for form, Sufiyan represents a new spin chapter. He’s attacking, economical, and unafraid to take responsibility in crunch moments.
Off the field, he’s calm and low-profile, preferring the ball to speak. On it, he’s building a case as Pakistan’s spin future heading into the 2026 T20 World Cup.
Final Word
From the streets of Azad Kashmir to global stages, Sufiyan Muqeem’s rise is a story of talent, hard work, and resilience. Operation Asia Cup 2025 may be his biggest test yet, but one thing is certain – cricket has found another spinner who can turn not just the ball, but matches themselves.
Afghanistan on Sunday unveiled a 17-member squad for the upcoming Asia Cup, scheduled to be played from September 9 to 28 in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
Afghanistan will face Hong Kong in the opening game of the Asia Cup on September 9. The tournament, taking place from September 9-28 in the United Arab Emirates, will feature eight teams competing for the coveted trophy. The event will be played in T20I format and will form an essential preparation for sides ahead of next year’s ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.
Experienced spinner Rashid Khan will captain the side, while white-ball stars Azmatullah Omarzai, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Fazalhaq Farooqi and Mohammad Nabi, who helped Afghanistan qualify for the knockout stage of last year’s ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, are also included.
Before the Asia Cup, Afghanistan will also face the hosts, UAE and Pakistan, in a T20I Tri-Nation Series, starting this Friday in Sharjah, which will feature most of the 22-member preliminary squad, previously announced by the ACB earlier this month.
India, Pakistan, UAE and Oman are in Group A, while Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan and Hong Kong are in Group B.
Afghanistan squad for Asia Cup 2025: Rashid Khan (C), Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, Darwish Rasooli, Sediqullah Atal, Azmatullah Omarzai, Karim Janat, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Sharafuddin Ashraf, Mohammad Ishaq, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Allah Ghazanfar, Noor Ahmad, Farid Malik, Naveen-ul-Haq, Fazalhaq Farooqi.
Reserves: Wafiullah Tarakhil, Nangyal Kharote, Abdullah Ahmadzai.
Afghanistan preliminary squad: Rashid Khan (c), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Sediqullah Atal, Wafiullah Tarakhil, Ibrahim Zadran, Darwish Rasooli, Mohammad Ishaq, Mohammad Nabi, Nangyal Kharoti, Sharafuddin Ashraf, Karim Janat, Azmatullah Omarzai, Gulbadin Naib, Mujeeb Zadran, AM Ghazanfar, Noor Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Naveen ul Haq, Farid Malik, Saleem Safi, Abdullah Ahmadzai, Bashir Ahmad. (ANI)
Madhya Pradesh made a clean sweep of all four gold medals at stake on Day 2 of the Khelo India Water Sports Festival here at the Dal Lake on Friday.
Hosts Jammu and Kashmir added a silver to their overnight tally while two more silvers left Odisha at No. 2 in the medal standings, as per a release from SAI Media.
On another warm day, all four finals in canoeing and kayaking were scheduled in the second half of the day. Madhya Pradesh, a major force in water sports, won their first gold medal in the men’s 500m kayaking doubles and never looked back after that to go No. 1 on the standings.
Seven gold medals have been decided so far, and on the final day on Saturday, 17 medals will be decided, and 10 of them will be in rowing. With several Services rowers representing the 28 states and Union Territories taking part in these Games, it should see some keen competition. All events being held here are Olympic medal events.
Niharika Singh and Chanderika Kushwaha, who won gold in K-2 Kayaking 500 metres women’s doubles, said that they were glad to be in Kashmir and had prepared well for the event. They said the Sports Authority of India had helped them in their sports journey leading up to this event and were looking forward for future events like this.
Sudhir Kumar and Prince Goswami, who won gold in the C-2 Canoeing 500 metres men’s event, said that in both the 2024 and 2025 national championships, they had won bronze. They said that they were practising for the Asian Games 2026 to be held in Japan. “We loved Kashmir and the competition was great,” they said. “Khelo India is a great platform and will help the youth a lot.”
Dally Bishnoi, the gold medal winner in the Kayaking 500 metres women’s event, said she was thrilled to have clinched the gold medal. She said that the Khelo India gold would serve as a stepping stone on her way to success. Bishnoi said that she plans to bring India glory at the Asian Games and the Olympics and would train really hard for it.
RESULTS (All finals)
Kayaking – K2 500m Men: 1. Aditya Singh and Manjeet (Madhya Pradesh) 01.41.59 sec 2. Shantosh Khwairakpam and Naoram James Singh (Odisha) 01:44.50 3. Vishal Dangi and Aditya Saini (Uttarakhand) 01.45.20 sec.
Canoeing – C2 500m Men: 1. Sudhir Kumar and Prince Goswami (Madhya Pradesh) 01:50.94 secs 2. Mohammad Hussain and Sajad Hussain (J&K) 01.52.61 sec 3. Pradeep Kumar and Abhay (Uttar Pradesh) 01.53.99 sec.
