Cricket and Peace

Law-enforcement agencies have made tremendous sacrifices to bring peace and stability to the nation. This is evident as many countries are now keen to improve bilateral relations with us. World leaders are flocking to the nation after years in isolation and are offering to not just show solidarity but also develop economic partnerships.

The role of China and our relations with the Asian giant are well-known. The recent visits by Malaysia’s Mahathir Mohammad and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan cannot be undermined. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has also arrived on a tour to Pakistan. He appreciated the role of Pakistan in securing peace and the contribution to UN Peacekeeping forces. The UN chief also praised the treatment of Afghan refugees in the country.

While diplomatic and military efforts have brought stability in the country, there is another field that has reinvigorated the spirit of the nation, created an environment of tranquility, and brightened our remote towns and cities. It took the support of the bat and ball and filled our deserted grounds and stadiums. It has ensured that the rekindled ray of hope remains bright and brought smiles on the faces of those who suffered from terrorism. The onslaught of fours and sixes has kept us alive.

Pakistan is a sports-loving nation. The potential for talent is immense and with just a little bit of support and encouragement, we can raise the national flag high and make the nation proud. While almost all sports are played in Pakistan, even board games like Scrabble are gaining popularity. A few days ago, a Karachi youth Moizullah won the Junior World Championship. Pakistan hosted the Kabbadi World Cup but also defeated arch-rival India to win the coveted title as defending champion.

We will always remain grateful to those who brought Pakistan out of the shackles of global terrorism. We are indebted to every drop of blood that has been spilled, every sacrifice that has been rendered, and will never forget the actions of those who foiled the efforts of our enemies to undermine us. These sacrifices will be remembered in every cricket pitch, every Kabbadi ring, and every field.  Cricket runs through our veins even though we don’t have the temperament to accept defeat. We are not shy to show it and it seems as if every one of us should be appointed as the coach of the national team.

The fifth edition of the Pakistan Super League is being held soon. The host cities are Karachi, Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Multan. We are sure that as we move forward, matches will be held in other cities of the countries as well. It is expected that world-class stadiums will be built in cities that lack such facilities with the support of the cricket board. The PSL will kick off on February 20 which will be realisation of the dream we saw four years ago as the entire nation will welcome the festive occasion.  The nation had remembered the sacrifices of those who lost their lives and finally embarked on the right track.