Sports

GILGIT — Chief Election Commissioner of Gilgit-Baltistan, Raja Shahbaz Khan, conducted an important hearing on appeals from candidates about election issues. Held at his office, the session involved officials and legal representatives, ensuring thorough examination of each case. Candidate Appeals Hearing Candidates presented their grievances while officials worked to address these concerns to uphold electoral integrity in the region. Specific details of these appeals and the resulting decisions remain undisclosed. Sports Celebration in Gilgit-Baltistan Recently, the region celebrated a sporting triumph as the Gilgit-Baltistan team defeated Chitral at the Shandur Polo Festival. Shandur Polo Festival Final The festival was a cultural celebration, emphasizing local traditions. Gilgit-Baltistan’s narrow 6-5 win marked a historic finish. The event showcased the vibrant athletic spirit of the region.

CHITRAL — Gilgit-Baltistan emerged victorious in an exhilarating polo match against Chitral, securing a narrow 6-5 win at the Shandur Polo Festival 2026. This triumph ends a 12-year drought against their traditional rivals, delighting thousands of spectators who gathered at the historic Shandur Polo Ground. The stunning backdrop of snow-capped mountains added to the event’s allure. Cultural Celebrations During the closing ceremony, students performed a vibrant traditional dance, celebrating Gilgit-Baltistan’s hard-fought victory at the world’s highest polo ground. The excitement was palpable as both players and spectators revelled in the festivities, concluding the festival on a high note. Trophy Presentation In a proud moment, a Gilgit-Baltistan player lifted the Shandur Polo Festival 2026 trophy. This victory not only returned the title to Gilgit-Baltistan but also revitalized the competitive spirit between the two regions. Spectators eagerly look forward to more thrilling encounters in future tournaments.

Gilgit-Baltistan Triumphs at Shandur Polo Festival CHITRAL — In an exhilarating conclusion to the Shandur Polo Festival 2026, Gilgit-Baltistan emerged victorious with a narrow 6-5 win against their longstanding rivals, Chitral. This victory, achieved at the historic Shandur Polo Ground, ended Gilgit-Baltistan’s 12-year title drought at the highest polo venue in the world. Thrilling Match Amidst Majestic Mountains The match attracted a massive crowd of passionate spectators, all cheering as Gilgit-Baltistan lifted the trophy. Snow-capped mountains provided a stunning backdrop to the celebrations. The game captivated audiences with its intense moments, maintaining suspense until the final whistle. Vibrant Closing Ceremony and Cultural Festivities The closing ceremony was a vibrant display of cultural heritage, featuring students who performed traditional dances. This event enhanced the festive atmosphere, highlighting the significance of the Shandur Polo Festival on the region’s sports calendar. The jubilant celebrations underscored Gilgit-Baltistan’s momentous triumph in this eagerly awaited annual event.

Historic Victory at Shandur Polo Festival 2026 The players from Gilgit-Baltistan achieved a narrow victory against Chitral in the final match of the Shandur Polo Festival 2026. This win ended a 12-year wait to overcome their long-time rivals. The competition took place at the historic Shandur Polo Ground, the world’s highest. Intense Match Details The thrilling match concluded with a 6-5 scoreline favoring Gilgit-Baltistan. Thousands of spectators gathered at the hillside grounds, eager to witness the intense competition. Both teams displayed remarkable skill and determination throughout the game. Festival Highlights and Significance The annual festival is renowned for its unique high-altitude setting. It once again showcased the enduring sportsmanship and regional pride between these traditionally rival teams. The close win allowed Gilgit-Baltistan to celebrate a hard-earned victory.

ISLAMABAD — The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has announced an ambitious national development plan aimed at advancing women’s hockey across Pakistan. This initiative, created in partnership with provincial hockey associations, is set to foster significant growth in the sport. Focus on National Girls Hockey Championship This development plan is closely aligned with the upcoming National Girls Hockey Championship, slated for July 2026. The championship is vital to the strategy, focusing on nurturing and improving the skills of female hockey players throughout the country. Boosting Women’s Participation in Hockey The federation aims to significantly increase women’s participation in hockey through this initiative. The goal is to elevate the standard of women’s hockey in Pakistan, paving the way for more female athletes to pursue professional careers. Strategic Objectives of the PHF Plan This new strategy encompasses several key objectives: Enhancing training facilities for female players Organizing regional tournaments to increase competitive exposure Encouraging collaboration with international hockey bodies

4Thrives Secures Esports World Championship The Pakistani esports team 4Thrives has achieved a remarkable milestone by clinching a world championship title. This victory underscores the immense talent and potential within Pakistan’s gaming community. Infinix GT 50 Pro: Key to Victory The Infinix GT 50 Pro played a crucial role in 4Thrives’ triumph, serving as the tournament’s official device. Its outstanding performance was instrumental in securing this historic win. Significance for Pakistani Gaming This achievement marks a significant milestone for Pakistani gaming on the global esports stage. It highlights the increasing prominence of Pakistani gamers worldwide.

GUJRAT — In a series of operations, Gujrat police arrested six suspects and seized narcotics, liquor, and firearms. The efforts targeted drug peddlers and those possessing illegal weapons. Operations Led by SHO City Lalamusa Inspector Nasir Mahmood, Station House Officer (SHO) of City Lalamusa, spearheaded efforts in multiple areas. His team arrested five individuals linked to drug trafficking and the illegal possession of weapons. Seizures included 30 litres of liquor and two pistols. The suspects taken into custody are identified as: Irfan alias Fani Bilal Usama Sarwar Kashif Ali Muhammad Shahid Separate Operation by SHO Bolani In a separate operation, SHO Bolani, Ghulam Rasool, led his team to target another alleged drug dealer. They arrested Qaiser Zaman, recovering 1,200 grams of hashish during the operation. Police have registered cases against all suspects and are proceeding with further investigations.

GILGIT — In a spectacular turn of events, Gilgit-Baltistan clinched the title at the Shandur Polo Festival 2026. They achieved a thrilling 6-5 victory over Chitral on Friday at the renowned Shandur Polo Ground. This triumph ends a 12-year title drought for Gilgit-Baltistan against their traditional rivals in the festival’s championship match. Polo Match: An Intense Rivalry The tightly contested polo match captivated thousands of spectators. It showcased the intense rivalry and skill of both teams. The Shandur Polo Festival is famous for its high-altitude setting, being held at the world’s highest polo ground. This major regional event attracts visitors and players from all over the country. Historic Victory for Gilgit-Baltistan This win marks a historic achievement for Gilgit-Baltistan, boosting their prominence in the annual event. Traditionally, the competition between these regions is fierce. The festival highlights not only the sport of polo but also the cultural heritage and tourism potential of the area.

LAKKI MARWAT — A suspected suicide blast near a mosque in the Khairo Khel Pakka village in Lakki Marwat occurred on Friday. The explosion claimed the lives of two individuals and injured several others, as reported by local authorities. Details of the Incident Rescue 1122 Lakki Marwat identified the deceased victims as eight-year-old Asma Bibi and 25-year-old Asad Ali. Emergency response teams quickly arrived at the site following the explosion. They provided first aid to the injured before transferring them to District Headquarters Hospital Tajazai for further medical assistance. Response and Investigations Authorities are actively engaged in response efforts and are assessing the situation meticulously. Investigations into the explosion’s nature and the surrounding circumstances are ongoing. Further details are anticipated as current evaluations are conducted.

GUJAR KHAN — The selection process for the Rawalpindi Division team competing in the 2026 Chief Minister Punjab Kabaddi Championship has concluded. Trials took place at the Sawar Muhammad Hussain Shaheed Nishan-e-Haider Cricket Stadium, with a significant focus on merit-based athlete selection. Divisional Selection Trials At the divisional level, trials were conducted to identify the most promising kabaddi players. These selected athletes will represent the Rawalpindi Division in the upcoming kabaddi championship. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance the quality and competitiveness of kabaddi in Punjab. Significance of the Championship The championship serves as a crucial platform for local talent to showcase their skills. It aims to strengthen the sport’s foundation at the grassroots level. Officials in charge of the selection emphasized transparency and fairness throughout the trials.