ali.hassan, Author at ASports.tv

Glenn Maxwell reacts after joining Hyderabad for PSL 11

Star Australian batter Glenn Maxwell has expressed his excitement after joining Hyderabad Houston Kingsmen for the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11.

The right-hander expressed his excitement about participating in the PSL and representing Hyderabad.

“I’m thrilled to be playing in the Pakistan Super League and to represent Hyderabad. It’s an honor to wear the team’s jersey, and I have always received so much love and support from Pakistan, which makes this experience even more special,” he remarked.

“I’m looking forward to the season and can’t wait to be part of the action. See you all in the PSL,” he added.

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It is worth noting that Glenn Maxwell has been part of the Indian Premier League (IPL) every season since his debut in 2012, representing four teams in 141 matches.

Earlier this year, Maxwell announced that he would not take part in the IPL.

“After many unforgettable seasons in the IPL, I’ve decided not to put my name into the auction this year. It’s a big call, and one I make with immense gratitude for everything this league has given me,” Maxwell had written in his Instagram post.

The explosive batter will join his compatriot Marnus Labuschagne in the squad, who was also picked as a direct signing for the tournament.

For the unversed, Hyderabad Houston Kingsmen secured their place in the PSL after being acquired by Fawad Sarwar’s Kingsmen Group, who won the franchise rights with a bid worth Rs1.75 billion (approximately $6.25 million).

Hyderabad Houston Kingsmen squad:

Saim Ayub, Akif Javed, Maaz Sadaqat, Marnus Labuschagne (Direct Signing), Glenn Maxwell, Usman Khan, Mohammad Ali, Kusal Perera, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Hassan Khan, Shayan Jahangir, Ottniel Baartman, Hammad Azam, Riley Meredith, Sharjeel Khan, Asif Mehmood, Hunain Shah, Rizwan Mehmood, Saad Ali, and Tayyab Arif.

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Accommodation crisis hits Pakistan hockey team in Australia

HOBART: The Pakistan Hockey team’s accommodation troubles deepened during their tour of Australia, with players facing mounting difficulties.

According to sources, the players have to endure poor conditions and face logistical challenges.

Videos have emerged showing players spending their final day in Hobart after being required to vacate their booked accommodations before their last match.

Sources said players were busy packing their belongings ahead of the 10:00 AM check-out.

The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) initially paid for seven days of lodging in Hobart, but the team was housed more than an hour and a half outside the city in facilities described as minimal.

Sources familiar with the matter said players faced these conditions due to logistical issues during the tour.

With help from the local community, the team management arranged alternative accommodations and meals.

Although initial hotel bookings were canceled for non-payment, rooms were later secured through an online platform, but with four to five players sharing each room, and the bookings did not cover the entire stay.

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The tour results added to the disappointment, as the national team remained winless in the Australian leg of the FIH Pro League.

Pakistan lost all four matches, with scores of 3-2 and 3-0 to Australia, and 5-2 and 6-1 to Germany.

Looking forward, Pakistan is scheduled to play their next FIH Pro League matches in Belgium on June 13 and Spain on June 14, with rematches against the same teams on June 20.

The team will then face arch-rivals India on June 23 and England on June 24, with second encounters against India and England on June 26 and 27.

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Kamran Akmal slams ‘unfair’ treatment of Mustafizur Rahman

Former Pakistan cricketer Kamran Akmal has voiced concerns over the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) treatment of Bangladesh player Mustafizur Rahman.

Mustafizur was released by the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Kolkata Knight Riders ahead of the 2026 season on the BCCI’s instructions.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) responded strongly to the development, with the country’s youth and sports adviser Asif Nazrul stating that the board would seek an explanation over Mustafizur’s sudden exclusion from the IPL.

Speaking at the Pakistan Celebrity T10 League (PCCL) season 2 event, Akmal talked about Rahman, noting that it was unfair to the pacer.

“Until you maintain good relations with your neighbors, you cannot move forward,” Kamran Akmal said.

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“What happened with Mustafizur Rahman was completely wrong. If a single player could not be provided security, how could the entire team be guaranteed safety?” he questioned.

He urged the International Cricket Council (ICC) to take difficult decisions.

“Even Pakistani players in other countries face visa issues. The same thing happened during the 2023 World Cup. ICC needs to understand these matters now.”

Meanwhile, former spinner Saeed Ajmal talked about the Indian team not visiting Pakistan.

“The whole world comes to Pakistan to play. Why is India so reluctant to come here? Ajmal questioned.

Former all-rounder Abdul Razzaq praised the inaugural PCCL event, calling the first edition a “great success.”

Razzaq highlighted that, for the first time in a long while, Pakistan’s Shaheens and Under-19 players have received so much cricket.

“The future of Pakistan cricket is bright. The performances of the Under-19s and Shaheens speak for themselves,” he said.

On the changing cricketing landscape, he observed that India’s actions are now visible to everyone, emphasizing that personal matters should not interfere with the game.

“We hope that these steps will contribute to the improvement of cricket. We have always seen that cricket sends a message of peace,” he added.

Responding to questions about players and interactions, Razzaq added that the decision not to shake hands was directed by the board.

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Samina Baig makes history as first Pakistani to ski to South Pole

Pakistani mountaineer Samina Baig has once again etched her name in the annals of global exploration, becoming the first Pakistani to ski to the South Pole.

Covering 111 kilometres across the extreme terrain of Antarctica, Baig completed the “Last Degree” journey on December 14, 2025, planting the Pakistani flag at the southernmost point of the Earth.

The expedition, organised by Elite Exped, departed from Pakistan on December 2 and reached Union Glacier on December 6.

After days of gruelling skiing through harsh Antarctic conditions, Baig’s achievement marked a major milestone in her pursuit of the prestigious Explorer Grand Slam, a challenge that requires adventurers to climb the highest peaks on all seven continents and reach both the North and South Poles.

Samina Baig, who hails from the remote village of Shimshal, has a remarkable history of trailblazing accomplishments.

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She became the first Pakistani woman to summit Mount Everest in 2013, and by July 2014, she had completed the Seven Summits, which include Everest, Kilimanjaro, McKinley, Mont Blanc, Elbrus, Aconcagua, Vinson, and Puncak Jaya.

She is also the first Pakistani woman to climb K2, the world’s second-highest and one of the most technically challenging mountains.

In a heartfelt post on her Facebook page, Baig reflected on her journey to the South Pole.

“This ski journey has never been accomplished by any Pakistani in the past. It has been one of the most challenging and meaningful experiences of my life,” she posted.

“From standing on the summit of Mount Everest in 2013 to completing the Seven Summits, the highest mountains on each continent, from climbing K2 and Nanga Parbat to now reaching the South Pole, this journey has taken me across the highest mountains and the most remote places on Earth.

“Every step along the way has taught me patience, resilience, and the power of belief.”

She credited her success to the support of her family, the Pakistani community that funded the expedition, fellow mountaineer Nirmal Purja, and the Elite Expeditions team.

“Without their trust, encouragement, and kindness, this journey would not have been possible,” she wrote.

Highlighting the importance of inspiring others, particularly women, Baig said: “Carrying the flag of Pakistan and my Ismaili flag across mountains, continents, and polar ice has been the greatest honour of my life. I hope my journey encourages others to pursue their dreams, no matter how challenging they may seem.”

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Renegades fans eager to see Rizwan in action, says GM James Rosengarten

Melbourne Renegades General Manager James Rosengarten shared that the fans of the team are eagerly waiting to see Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan in action in the upcoming season of the Big Bash League (BBL).

Speaking exclusively to ARY News via video link, Rosengarten highlighted the growing buzz around the tournament, noting that this season marks the first time several of Pakistan’s biggest names will feature across different franchises.

“The Big Bash League is just days away, and the inclusion of Pakistan’s superstar players has truly taken the tournament to another level,” Rosengarten said.

“For the first time, players like Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf will represent different teams, and that has created huge anticipation.”

The Renegades GM said Rizwan’s arrival in Melbourne has generated particular excitement among local fans.

“In Australia, and especially in Melbourne, Pakistani fans are eagerly waiting for the Big Bash League,” he said.

“The fan clubs are ready, everyone is waiting to see when Mohammad Rizwan will step onto the field.”

Rosengarten also underlined the importance of Rizwan’s role within the Renegades setup, pointing to his partnership with Tim Seifert as a key asset.

“The combination of Mohammad Rizwan and Tim Seifert is very important for our team,” he said.

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“Along with that, young Pakistani cricketer Hasan Khan will also be a major point of interest this season.”

Acknowledging the presence of Pakistan’s star players across rival franchises, Rosengarten said the Renegades are prepared for the challenge.

“Babar Azam will be playing for Sydney Sixers, but we will step onto the field fully prepared,” he said. “Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf will bring serious pace, but our batters will be ready to compete.”

When asked if he would have liked to sign another Pakistani player, Rosengarten named Saim Ayub as his top choice.

“If I had the opportunity to draft one more Pakistani player, I would definitely choose Saim Ayub,” he said.

Rosengarten also thanked the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi for facilitating the participation of Pakistani players in the league.

“I want to thank PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi,” he said.

“The decision to issue No Objection Certificates to so many Pakistani superstars is very encouraging. The cricketing relationship between Pakistan and Australia is becoming stronger with each passing day.”

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Shadab Khan excited for Babar Azam clash in BBL comeback

Pakistan’s star all-rounder Shadab Khan has expressed his excitement not only about returning to competitive cricket but also about a much-anticipated showdown with compatriot Babar Azam in the Big Bash League (BBL) 2025.

The leg-spinner underwent right-shoulder surgery on July 5 in England after persistent discomfort and multiple medical consultations.

The procedure sidelined him for nearly five months, ruling him out of several major assignments, including the Asia Cup 2025.

Now fully recovered, Shadab Khan is set to return to action in the BBL, where he will represent the Sydney Thunder, his first major appearance since surgery.

Speaking exclusively to ARY News, he said his ambition is simple: make a strong, impactful comeback.

“This is my first event after surgery,” Shadab said. “Because of the surgery, I stayed away from cricket for almost five months.”

“But I’ve completed my preparation for the Big Bash League, and my only aim is to play good cricket and make a strong comeback.”

With multiple Pakistani stars featuring across franchises, Shadab believes this season will attract heightened interest.

“Pakistan’s big-name players will be in action this time,” he said. “Because of Pakistani players, the Big Bash is getting even more attention.”

One of the biggest storylines of the season will be Shadab going head-to-head with former Pakistan captain Babar Azam, who will represent the Sydney Sixers.

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The two sides meet twice in the high-voltage Sydney Derby, first on 20 December and again on 16 January.

“Babar and I have played together a lot,” Shadab said. “We understand each other’s mindset. It will be fun when Babar and I face each other on Australian soil.”

Shadab Khan also spoke about the experience of sharing a dressing room with top Australian names.

“Playing alongside David Warner and other Australian players will be a unique experience,” he said.

Reflecting on his recovery, the all-rounder said highs and lows are part of the sport.

“Injuries and being out of form are part of a player’s life,” he admitted. “I accept that I’ve been through that phase too.”

He stressed the importance of all-rounders contributing in every department.

“An all-rounder should focus on both batting and bowling,” he said. “It’s wrong to think that if your batting isn’t going well, your bowling won’t help either. Playing different roles according to the team and the situation is not a bad thing.”

With a strong Pakistani presence expected in the stands, Shadab said fan support plays a key role in boosting confidence.

“There is a large number of Pakistani fans in Australia,” he said. “We get energy from the fans.”

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Pakistan mountaineers launch Karakoram Mountain Guides Association

SKARDU: Pakistan mountaineering sector marked a milestone in Skardu with the official inauguration of the Karakoram Mountain Guides Association (KGMA), the country’s first national body created by mountaineers.

The event was hosted at a private hotel that brought together numerous mountain professionals from across the country, particularly from Gilgit-Baltistan.

During the event, participants discussed the structure of the new association and its working manual, highlighted the challenges faced by mountain guides in Pakistan, and emphasized the need for training, welfare systems, safety protocols, and stronger representation at national and international levels.

The event also included female members, a positive step toward creating equal opportunities within the profession.

A 17-member governing body was formed through regional representation. Later, the governing body, with full representation of all mountain guides of Pakistan, further elected the official office bearers.

The organisation elected its office bearers with renowned climber Sirbaz Khan chosen as President. The three Vice Presidents are Saad Munawar, Zahid Hussain Rajput, and Sajid Ali Sadpara, while Shah Daulat has been appointed Treasurer. Mirza Ali will serve as the General Secretary.

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Each elected member brings extensive field experience and a deep commitment to improving the future of Pakistan mountaineers.

The KMGA aims to improve safety standards, create career pathways, provide training, and promote professionalism across the industry.

Moreover, the KMGA will train and develop professional mountain guides in Pakistan, working in collaboration with international mountain guide associations.

The organization’s aim also includes improving rescue response systems and high-altitude safety procedures.

The KGMA will also work closely with the Government of Pakistan and tourism departments to address guide welfare, safety concerns, rescue systems, and all issues directly related to mountain professionals.

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Usman Khawaja ruled out of the second Ashes Test in Brisbane

BRISBANE: Usman Khawaja has been officially ruled out of the second Ashes Test against England at The Gabba after his back injury failed to settle, Cricket Australia (CA) confirmed on Tuesday.

The 38-year-old was battling discomfort throughout the series opener in Perth and has now been sidelined with a confirmed back injury.

Despite being unavailable for selection, Khawaja will remain with the squad to continue his rehabilitation, with selectors opting not to call in a replacement at this stage.

Khawaja attempted a light fitness test on Monday, completing short running drills on the Gabba outfield before spending around half an hour in the nets against the pink ball.

However, he appeared uncomfortable at various stages and faced only assistant coach Michael Di Venuto’s throw-downs, despite timing several pull shots cleanly.

The veteran left-hander endured a torrid first Test, where back spasms kept him off the field for extended periods.

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England’s rapid collapse on the opening day meant Usman Khawaja was unable to take his usual opening position, and when early wickets tumbled, he walked in at No.4 but managed just two runs.

On the second day, he returned to the slips, taking one sharp catch before spilling a low chance, during which his back again seized up while attempting another effort.

The episode opened the door for Travis Head, who went on to smash a match-winning century in the chase.

Khawaja’s struggles come at a time when his form was already under the scanner.

Since the end of the 2023 Ashes, he has averaged 31.84 with just one century across 45 innings, placing additional pressure on his position at the top of the order.

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Lyari Football Academy finish runners-up in SingaCup 2025 U16 Tournament

SINGAPORE: Pakistan’s Lyari Football Academy finished as runners-up in the SingaCup 2025 Under-16 category after a valiant performance in the final against Thailand’s Benjamarachanusorn School at The Arena, Woodleigh, on Friday.

The championship clash proved to be a thrilling contest, with Benjamarachanusorn School, who remained unbeaten throughout the tournament, clinching the title with a narrow 2–1 victory.

Kashif from Lyari Football Academy was named the Most Valuable Player of the tournament.

Earlier, Lyari Football Academy booked their spot in the final after edging past Indonesia’s Tapteng Sibolga Student Football Team 1–0 in a tense semi-final.

Their Thai opponents, meanwhile, had overpowered Pakistan’s Kareem Kerai Academy 5–0 in the other semi-final.

In the third-place playoff, Kareem Kerai Academy bounced back strongly to secure a podium finish.

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After a goalless draw in regular time against Indonesia’s Tapteng Sibolga Student Football Team, Kareem Kerai Academy held their nerve in the penalty shootout to win 4–3, ensuring Pakistan ended the tournament with two teams inside the top three.

Since its inception in 2011, the SingaCup has been recognised as Asia’s premier youth football tournament.

The 2025 edition featured around 160 teams from 13 countries, competing across five age categories: Under-8, Under-10, Under-12, Under-14, and Under-16.

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Lyari Football Academy storms into SingaCup U16 Final

SINGAPORE: Pakistan’s Lyari Football Academy continued their dream run at the SingaCup 2025, qualifying for the Under-16 final, scheduled to be played on November 7 at The Arena, Woodleigh.

They secured their spot in the finals after defeating Indonesia’s Tapteng Sibolga Student Football Team 1-0 in an exciting semi-final match at the same venue.

It was Taj Muhammad who emerged as the hero for the Lyari side, scoring the decisive goal to guide his team into the final.

The victory marks a historic moment for the academy, which is participating in an overseas tournament for the first time.

Lyari Football Academy will now face Thailand’s Benjamarachanusorn School in the U16 final on November 7, 2025.

The Thai side secured their spot after defeating Pakistan’s Kareem Kerai Academy 5-0 in the other semi-final.

Interestingly, both finalists, Lyari Football Academy and Benjamarachanusorn School, were placed in Group C earlier in the competition.

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The Pakistani team suffered their only defeat of the group stage against the same Thai opponents, setting up a much-anticipated rematch for the title.

The SingaCup, established in 2011, is widely regarded as Asia’s premier international youth football tournament.

The 2025 edition has drawn around 160 teams from 13 countries, featuring competitions across Under-8, Under-10, Under-12, Under-14, and Under-16 categories.

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