Baseball breakthrough

Pakistan's stunning performance at the inaugural Baseball United Arab Classic in Dubai, where they emerged undefeated champions by thrashing the hosts UAE 12-1 in the final, is nothing short of remarkable. In a region where cricket reigns supreme and baseball is a relatively unknown sport, this victory stands as a testament to the sheer grit and dedication of Pakistan's athletes. Despite limited resources and exposure to the sport, Pakistan's baseball team has proven that passion and hard work can reap the reward.

Starting with a dominant 10-0 win against Bangladesh, followed by a solid 10-3 victory over the UAE, and continuing with resounding wins against India (12-0) and Afghanistan (17-3), Pakistan's journey to the championship shows the immense talent the country possesses. What makes this victory even more significant is the backdrop against which it was achieved. While countries like India have been heavily investing in sports infrastructure and training facilities, Pakistan's sports sector continues to struggle with inadequate funding and resources. The lack of proper equipment, training grounds and financial support has long plagued Pakistani athletes, forcing them to rely on raw talent and self-discipline. Yet, despite these challenges, Pakistan's baseball team has managed to shine, making their victory a story that deserves to be celebrated. However, competing on a larger scale, like the World Baseball Classic, where they faced strong teams from Brazil and Great Britain, will pose challenges that will highlight the disparity in resources. This achievement should serve as a wake-up call for policymakers and sports authorities in Pakistan to recognise the potential of lesser-known sports.

Pakistan's athletes have all what it takes to compete - and win - at the highest levels, and with the right kind of support, baseball could become another sport where Pakistan can establish itself as a force to be reckoned with. Diversifying support across various sports can pave the way for untapped talent to come to the forefront.