KARACHI, Nov 30: The newly revived Pakistan Amateur Basketball Federation (PABF) has extended invitations to a couple of countries for an international contest which they plan to host sometime in the second quarter of next year.

The nations which have been invited are Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh etc, Secretary PABF, Lt. Col (retd) Naseem Butt told Dawn on Thursday.

He said the decision was taken at the first executive committee meeting of the newly constituted PABF which was held at Lahore recently with its President Punjab Law Minister Raja Basharat in chair.

‘We have offered them free boarding and lodging he said adding the venue will be decided as soon as confirmations are received’. An international Referees clinic will be conducted simultaneously, he said.

He disclosed that world body FIBA along with Asian Basketball Federation have recognised PABF besides congratulating the new office bearers.

On the domestic front, he said PABF will organise four separate National championships for men, women, departmental and juniors next year.

The PABF secretary said members were informed that following submission of election report by POA, the Supreme Court has disposed off the case. The elections took place on Oct 4.

The retired Colonel said it was decided to circulate proposed draft constitution of PABF to all affiliated members in line with the National Sports Policy seeking their suggestions prior to adoption.

Referring to the omission of basketball from the forthcoming National Games the official said he had send a letter to POA chief requesting him to include the game in the larger national interest.

He said efforts are also being made to acquire a piece of land in Lahore for constructing PABF’s own indoor basketball court and gymnasium.