KARACHI: The Association of Sports Media Alliance (ASMAN) hosted a ceremony at the Creek Club in Karachi to recognize and honor former Pakistani cricketers and distinguished sports journalists for their outstanding contributions to Pakistan cricket and sports journalism.
The event brought together prominent figures from the sports and media fraternity, with shields presented to former Test and international cricketers in recognition of their services and contributions to the game.
Station Commander ISPR Sindh, Brigadier Yaqoob Awan, who attended the ceremony as chief guest, presented shields to former cricketers Iqbal Qasim, Tauseef Ahmed, Haroon Rasheed, Jalaluddin, Abdul Raqeeb, and Shoaib Muhammad.
Distinguished sports journalists were also recognized for their longstanding contributions to sports journalism. Shields were presented to Waheed Khan, Majid Bhatti, Shahida Shoaib Rizvi, Atiq-ur-Rehman, and Iqbal Jamil.
Addressing the gathering, Brigadier Yaqoob Awan said it was a privilege and an honor to meet professionals who had distinguished themselves in their respective fields.
“I am pleased to be among this galaxy of stars,” he said, adding that Pakistani cricketers had brought immense pride to the nation by taking Pakistan’s name to the global stage through their achievements.
He also highlighted the unifying power of sports, saying that sporting activities serve as a binding force and play an important role in bringing people together and strengthening national unity.
Earlier, television anchor Yahya Hussaini said ASMAN would continue its efforts to recognize and honor sports personalities and journalists for their contributions. He expressed the organization’s commitment to holding similar initiatives in the future.
Veteran journalist Waheed Khan emphasized the importance of professional training for young journalists, particularly in ethical standards and responsible journalism. He said adherence to journalistic values was essential to safeguarding the credibility and integrity of the profession.
Speaking on the occasion, senior journalist Majid Bhatti said the primary objective of the Alliance of Sports Media Association was to promote the welfare and professional interests of the journalist community.
In a gesture of respect and appreciation, Babar Abbasi, CEO of Hussain Marketing, presented a traditional Ajrak and cap to Brigadier Yaqoob Awan.
The event was also attended by Iqbal Munir, Naseem Rajput, Munir ul Haq, Zubair Hashmi, Azhar Zia, and Khursheed Alam, along with other prominent members of the sports and media fraternity.
The ceremony served as a fitting tribute to Pakistan’s cricketing legends and veteran sports journalists, recognizing their enduring contributions to the country’s sporting heritage and the promotion and documentation of sports through journalism
