Lahore Qalandars have announced a two-day cricket event inviting members of the Lahore, Islamabad and Karachi Press Clubs in an effort to promote healthy activity and celebrate journalists on the field.
Atif Naeem Rana, the franchise chief executive, made the announcement at the Lahore Press Club alongside President Arshad Ansari, saying the initiative is part of the team’s wider commitment to community engagement and grassroots sport. He noted that the idea grew from a desire to give journalists a chance to be covered and celebrated rather than simply cover events themselves.
Rana emphasised that the format of the fixtures, whether tape-ball or hard-ball, and the scheduling — including the option to hold matches during Ramadan — will be left to the participating press clubs to decide. He described the tournament as an opportunity to fill grounds and encourage physical activity among media professionals while spotlighting the value of sport in everyday life.
Responding to questions about the franchise’s relationship with the hockey federation, Rana clarified that administrative developments have temporarily constrained their ability to field players. He stressed that the franchise’s support for Pakistan’s national sport remains intact and that the current separation is temporary until the right moment to re-engage.
On player matters, Rana addressed concerns about a recent dip in form from pacers Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf, saying the franchise prioritises a supportive environment, proper facilities and confidence. He asserted that continued backing and focus are essential for players to regain peak performance.
Arshad Ansari praised the Lahore Qalandars’ Players Development Program and commended the franchise for identifying talent in remote areas across Pakistan. He welcomed the journalists’ tournament as a constructive way to engage the media community and said Rana had pledged full support to the Lahore Press Club and the wider journalist fraternity.
The Journalists Cricket event reflects Lahore Qalandars’ expanding role beyond professional leagues into community initiatives aimed at nurturing talent and promoting sport at all levels.
