ISLAMABAD: Over the past six months, Pakistan has delivered a wave of sporting triumphs alongside a bold, widely reported military display against India —signaling its growing regional influence and rallying nationwide pride.
In sports, from snooker and boxing to squash, baseball, volleyball, and rowing, Pakistan’s athletes — especially its youth — have repeatedly outperformed regional rivals and earned gold medals. On the military front, the PAF’s claims of a decisive 6–0 aerial victory signal Pakistan’s strategic readiness and use of advanced platforms. Together, these triumphs bolster national unity, pride, and projected dynamism — placing Pakistan in a stronger position diplomatically and competitively on both regional and international stages.
Snooker
In July 2025, Pakistan’s veteran cueist Muhammad Asif clinched the IBSF World Masters Snooker Championship at the Crowne Plaza in Bahrain. He defeated India’s Brijesh Damani in the final to claim the title. Though some earlier accounts mention matches against Manan Chandra, the official record confirms his victory in the final vs Damani.
Boxing
Just over a week ago, Pakistani kickboxer Agha Kaleem dominated the Professional Boxing Championship in Azerbaijan in the 52kg category. He knocked out India’s Visal Ravi early in the match, securing gold and an emphatic win over regional competition.
Youth and Junior Team Sports
In the Asian Men’s U16 Volleyball Championship in Nakhon Phanom, Thailand, Pakistan beat India 30 in the semi-finals, advancing to the final and continuing a dream run for the team. At the ATF U12 SouthAsia Tennis Championship in Colombo, Pakistan similarly outclassed India in the semi-final. Unfortunately, the final was rained out, leading to Pakistan and Sri Lanka being declared joint champions.
Baseball & Athletics
In the West Asia Baseball Cup semi-final held in May at Enghelab Stadium, Pakistan routed India 14–1, showcasing dominance on the baseball field. In athletics, Javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem secured a historic gold medal at the Asian Athletics Championship underlining Pakistan’s growing footprint in track and field.
Squash & Indoor Rowing
At the 32nd Asian Junior Individual Squash Championship in Gimcheon, South Korea, Sohail Adnan won the Under13 boys’ title by defeating India’s Ayaan Dhanuka in the final. Pakistan also triumphed over India in the Asian Indoor Rowing Championship final, further reflecting depth and resilience across lesserknown yet competitive sports.
Military: Pakistan Air Force’s Aerial Assertion
In early May 2025, Pakistan Air Force (PAF) engaged in what it claims is the largest modern aerial dogfight —an hourlong Beyond Visual Range (BVR) clash involving over 125 fighter jets from both nations, without either side crossing national airspace. According to PAF statements, six Indian Air Force aircraft — including three Rafale jets, one MiG29, one Mirage2000, and one Su30MKI — were shot down with zero Pakistani losses. The operations were carried out by J10C fighters of No 15 “Cobras” Squadron, deploying Chinesemade PL15 BVR missiles with superior range and target acquisition capabilities. These accomplishments — spanning sports and military realms — reflect a nation asserting itself through discipline, determination, and emerging capabilities across domains.
