KATHMANDU: Pakistani karatekas were on fire on Monday in the ongoing 2019 South Asian Games as they helped the country bag three medals in Kathmandu, Nepal.

Young karateka Shahida opened the account for Pakistan in the event with a gold medal in the single kata category with 42 points. Naimatullah was next to bag a medal for Pakistan as he scored 24.92 points to win a silver.

The third medal was won in the team event courtesy Gulnaz, Shahida and Nargis’ exceptional performance.

Later, in the men’s team event, Pakistan trio of Naseer Ahmed, Noman and Naimatullah to a team competition bronze medal.

Pakistan now have four medals in the event so far.

Meanwhile, Pakistan have also qualified for the final of the volleyball event where they will face arch-rivals India on Tuesday.

Pakistan has fielded a contingent of 305 athletes in the 2019 South Asian Games.

Meanwhile, Federal Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination (IPC) Dr Fehmida Mirza on Monday lauded the national karatekas for displaying outstanding performance. She praised the efforts and sheer hardwork of the Pakistani karate team for producing great results and winning laurels for the country, said a press release issued here.

The minister attended the inauguration ceremony of the Games in order to boost the morale of Pakistani participants. She was accompanied by Secretary IPC Akbar Durrani who led the contingent as chief de mission.

A spectacular fireworks display followed the official opening of the 13th SAG which kicked off with a march-past by athletes of all participating countries and beautiful cultural performances by the Nepalese artists.

Published in Dawn, December 3rd, 2019