LAHORE: Veteran journalist Muhammad Ali on Tuesday launched his book titled “Pakistan Sports and Heroes” at the Royal Palm Golf and Country Club in Lahore.
Former Pakistan captain and legendary batsman Zaheer Abbas, Pakistan Olympic Association (POA) President Lt Gen (r) Syed Arif Hasan, former hockey captain Akhtar Rasool Ch, tennis star Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi, hockey legend Dr Tariq Aziz, former cricketers Salman Butt and Muhammad Yousuf, Lahore Qalandars’ CEO Atif Rana, senior journalist Rashed Rahman and number of sportspersons, sports administrators, and journalists were present on the occasion.
The book consists of approximately 400 pages and carries history of Pakistan sports with records and rare photos. It also contains individual profiles of all Pakistani sports legends from 1947 onward.
Addressing the participants at the ceremony, Zaheer Abbas praised the author for compiling the book and said: “I congratulate Muhammad Ali on writing the book that covers all sports and contains profiles of all Pakistani sports legends. The book will surely help players in learning from past sports events.”
Speaking at the event, Syed Arif Hasan praised the efforts of the author and said that Pakistan has a rich sporting history, adding that the book will attract the new generation towards sports.
In his speech, Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi thanked the author for mentioning his achievements in the book. He said: “The book covers all sports, including tennis. And I am happy that Muhammad Ali has mentioned my achievements for the country in his book. It is a proud moment for me to sit with Olympians here at the ceremony as I have not represented Pakistan in Olympics yet. I congratulate the author on writing such a master piece.”
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Tariq Aziz said: “Muhammad Ali’s efforts are commendable as in his book, he has covered all achievements of Pakistani sports legends from 1947 to till date. The book will motivate young sports players by providing them a timeline of past sports achievements and profiles of sports legends. It will also serve as a reference book on Pakistan sports.”
Journalist Rashed Rahman said: “I have read the book. It is a comprehensive book on history of Pakistan sports and legends. It is first of its kind as a single book on all sports was never written before. The profile of Khaliq, who had won many laurels for the country, is also available in the book.”
In the end, the author thanked the speakers for their valuable comments on the book and all the guests for gracing the ceremony with their presence. He said it took him five years to compile the book, adding that he will continue his services to Pakistan sports.
