The Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) has officially declined a request from the Pakistan Tenpin Bowling Federation (PTBF) for financial assistance to send the national team to the upcoming World Tenpin Bowling Championship. The mega event is scheduled to take place in the United States from October 13 to 23, 2025.
According to reliable sources, PTBF had requested funds to cover the participation of a four-member national squad in the Senior World Championship. However, instead of approving the request, the board informed the federation that no funding would be provided for the event.
Confirmation from PTBF Leadership
When contacted, PTBF President Ijaz-ur-Rehman confirmed that PSB has communicated its decision not to provide financial support. This means Pakistan’s participation in the world event now hangs in the balance, leaving both athletes and fans disappointed.
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Players and Fans Appeal to the Prime Minister
The decision has sparked a wave of criticism from tenpin bowling enthusiasts across the country. Players and fans have made an urgent appeal to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, urging the government to intervene and ensure Pakistan’s representation at the global stage.
They argue that the World Tenpin Bowling Championship is one of the biggest events in the sport, attracting top bowlers from around the world. Missing out on this platform, they believe, would not only affect the careers of Pakistani players but also damage Pakistan’s image in international sports.
National Team Line-Up
Despite the funding setback, the federation has already shortlisted the team for the championship:
- Ijaz-ur-Rehman
- Muhammad Hussain
- Shabbir Lashkar
- Aleem Agha
The squad will be managed by Ahmed Sheikhani (Manager) and coached by Amjad Mahmood (Head Coach).
Why Participation Matters
Tenpin bowling may not enjoy the same popularity as cricket or hockey in Pakistan, but the sport has been steadily gaining followers. Participation in international events like the World Championship is crucial for:
- Providing global exposure to local players.
- Improving Pakistan’s international sports profile.
- Inspiring youth involvement in diverse sports beyond cricket.
A Call for Reconsideration
The PTBF and the wider bowling community are calling on the Pakistan Sports Board to reconsider its decision. They emphasize that participation in world-level events is not a luxury but a necessity for Pakistan to remain relevant in lesser-highlighted sports.
Unless urgent funding is arranged, Pakistan may be forced to withdraw from the championship, something that would be a major disappointment for both athletes and supporters.
