Web desk :
UK Media XI defeated SJAL XI in a rain-hit exhibition cricket match here at historic Gaddafi Stadium. The match, part of the Pakistan-UK Journalists Friendship Series, showcased not only cricketing skills but also the spirit of camaraderie and sportsmanship. The match was successfully hosted by Sports Journalists Association of Lahore (SJAL).
UK Media XI, batting first, managed to put up a total of 102 runs for the loss of six wickets in their allotted overs. Key contributions came from Ghufran Ashraf, who scored a commendable 25 runs while Abbas Awan struck 19, Faizan Abbasi adding 15, and Amir Khan 11 runs. On the bowling front, SJAL XI’s Sanaullah Khan and Ehtesham-ul-Haq each took two wickets, while Imran Sohail and Usman Khan claimed one wicket apiece.
In response, the SJAL XI had a promising start, racing to 37 runs without loss in just 3.2 overs before the skies opened up. Qadir Khawaja was particularly aggressive, scoring a swift 31 off just a few deliveries, alongside Abdul Rauf who made unbeaten 6 runs. The match had to be called off as the rain persisted, leaving the ground waterlogged and unplayable. Despite the anti-climactic end, the short burst of cricket was enjoyed by players and cricket enthusiasts.
At the conclusion of the match, Punjab Sports Minister Faisal Ayub Khokhar, along with dignitaries including PCB Director Media Sami ul Hasan Barni, Lahore Qalandars CEO Atif Rana, former Pakistan cricket team manager Azhar Zaidi, Shaukat Dar and Naeem Tahir, presented awards to the winner and players.
Punjab Sports Minister Faisal Ayub Khokhar shared his enthusiasm, saying: “Typically, we watch athletes perform on the playing fields. However, today it was a delight to see sports journalists in action at the Gaddafi Stadium and taking part in a healthy sporting activity. I extend my appreciation to the SJAL family, UK Media Persons, Pakistan Cricket Board, and all other stakeholders for initiating this splendid event. I eagerly anticipate the next match, where I hope to demonstrate my own cricketing skills.”
SJAL President Aqeel Ahmad expressed gratitude to the UK Media XI for participating in an exhibition cricket match at the historic Gaddafi Stadium. “Despite the match being washed out, both teams played impressively, making it a thrilling encounter that was enjoyed by everyone. I am also grateful to PCB for providing the venue,” he added.
UK Media XI Captain Ghulam Hussain Awan praised the enthusiasm and performance of the SJAL XI and thanked all the stakeholders for facilitating this remarkable event. “The players from the UK thoroughly enjoyed participating, and we are now eager to host the SJAL XI for an exhibition match in the UK soon,” he said.
