rki.news
By Sajjad Ahmed Sheikh
Bureau Chief RKI – Muscat, Oman
Muscat: The Ramadan Evenings 2026 Cricket Tournament, organized by Pakistan Social Club Oman in collaboration with Pakistan School Muscat, was officially inaugurated on 25 February 2026 at the Pakistan School Ground in a vibrant and festive community atmosphere.
The ceremony was graced by Chief Guest Syed Naveed Safdar Bokhari, Ambassador of Pakistan to the Sultanate of Oman, while Sheikh Syed Fayyaz Ali Shah attended as Guest of Honour. A large gathering of Pakistani community leaders, families, team representatives, and members of the Pakistan Social Club Board of Directors reflected strong unity and enthusiasm among expatriates.
The program commenced with a welcome address by Chief Coordinator Syed Jamil Zaidi, who invited Chief Organizer Mohammed Kaleem Akhtar to escort the dignitaries to the field for the formal inauguration. Accompanied by Chairman M. Nadeem Azeemi, General Secretary Kashif Zaeem, Finance Director Imran Toor, and Directors Usman Lakhan, Saandar Bokhari, Dr. Mazher, and William John, the Ambassador ceremonially played the first ball to officially launch the tournament.
Addressing participants and spectators, Ambassador Bokhari commended Pakistan Social Club Oman for consistently promoting sports, youth engagement, and community harmony among overseas Pakistanis. He noted that such initiatives strengthen cultural identity, foster friendship, and encourage healthy competition.
Chief Organizer Mohammed Kaleem Akhtar expressed gratitude to the Embassy of Pakistan, sponsors, participating teams, volunteers, and Pakistan School Muscat for their continued support. He emphasized that the tournament celebrates not only cricket but also family entertainment, social interaction, and the spirit of Ramadan, urging teams to uphold discipline, sportsmanship, and mutual respect.
Match Highlights
Match 1 – Group B: Boom Boom ITL vs Al Haseena Jewellers
Boom Boom ITL won the toss and elected to bat, posting an impressive 171 for 4 in eight overs. The standout performance came from Haroon, who scored the tournament’s first century with 104 runs, including 13 sixes and four fours. Khalil claimed 1 wicket for 18 runs.
In reply, Al Haseena Jewellers scored 112 in eight overs. Usman led the chase with a brisk 51 off 18 balls (six sixes, two fours). Amir spearheaded the bowling for Boom Boom ITL with 3 wickets for 22 runs. Boom Boom ITL won by 59 runs, and Haroon was named Man of the Match.
Match 2 – Group C: Asfand Yaar XI vs Ravi XI
Asfand Yaar XI batted first, scoring 165 for 4. Arshumand delivered an outstanding all-round performance with 55 runs (eight sixes, one four) and 2 wickets for 17 runs. Saqib added 45 runs.
Ravi XI were restricted to 78 in eight overs, with Awais top-scoring with 14. Sajjad took 2 wickets for 35 runs. Asfand Yaar XI secured an 88-run victory, and Arshumand received the Man of the Match award.
The Ramadan Evenings Cricket Tournament will continue throughout the holy month with competitive fixtures, family activities, food stalls, and community engagement, making it one of the most anticipated sporting events for the Pakistani community in Oman.
Special appreciation was extended to Mrs. Azra Aleem, Director Media, Pakistan Social Club Oman, for her dedicated role in coordinating media coverage, stage arrangements, decorations, and live commentary over many years, contributing significantly to the tournament’s success.
Upcoming Matches – 26 February 2026:
Mumtaz XI vs I-Cap (Group D)
Muscat Luck TRD vs All Brothers (Group C)
Pakistan XI vs Al Haikal A (Group C)