Saqib Ali Haidri
Muzaffarabad: (parliament Times) The most favorite franchise of Pakistan Super League PSL, Lahore Qalanders LQ, is all set to revive cricket in Muzaffarabad, Azad Kashmir. Not only that LQ is bringing a complete package of “cricketainment” for the people of Azad Kashmir, but it also offers cricket fans a wide-ranging opportunity to win surprise gifts on sidelines of action-packed cricket matches.After conclusion of trials at different cities by Lahore Qalanders in collaboration with Jazz for Jazz Rising Stars, the stage is set for the mega jazz rising stars tournament between the teams of eight cities formed following open trials at different venues. Trials were also conducted in Kashmjr with an overwhelming response. Around 15,000 appeared at Mirpur and over 19,000 came in Muzaffarabad showing their eagerness to become a Qalander. For them, it was first of kind opportunity.
Similar trials were held at 7 other venues in Punjab as well which led to formation of 8 teams. The selected teams of 8 cities will be in action for Lahore Qalanders’ Jazz Rising Stars tournament, to be played in Muzaffarabad and Lahore. The picturesque stadium in Muzaffarabad will host matches of group A.
During the tournament, Muzaffarabad Cricket Stadium will become a hub of festivity in Kashmir. Qalanders invite people join the party and enjoy the beautiful game of cricket. Because, along with the cricket action, the Lahore Qalanders has more in bag to offer. The fans will have opportunity to win surprise gifts, which include- but not limited to- Motorbikes, Cars, PSL tickets, Mobile Phones, LQ jerseys, Helmets and many other prizes.
The Qalanders have also contributed towards upgradation of the Muzaffarabad Cricket Stadium before the Jazz Rising Stars tournament. The unconditional support from Azad Jammu and Kashmir government has been exemplary.The aim behind bringing the Rising stars talent hunt program to Kashmir was to provide equal opportunity to the players of Kashmir as they never got any such opportunity before. Lahore Qalanders’ vision to bring happiness to Kashmir is unrivalled.
While addressing to Press conference at central press club Muzaffarabad CEO Lahore Qalanders said that our mission is not limited to select and elevate talent from this area but we will also bring festivity to Kashmir. He said,” we want to provide happiness to the nation and Kashmir needed this initiative. The aim is to give people of Azad Jammu and Kashmir something to smile about.”
According to the Tournament schedule 2 matches will be played each day in Muzaffarabad from 26th to 28th September. Muzaffarabad will play 3 matches with Rawalpindi, Sargodha and Gujranwala on 26, 27 and 28th of September respectively.
