Lahore: A traditional festival cricket match was held at the Oval Ground of Government College University (GCU) Lahore on Wednesday, where Old Ravians XI and Vice Chancellor XI played out a high-scoring tie in the 20-over contest, resulting in the trophy being shared by both teams.
The match, a decades-long winter-season tradition, was organised by the Old Ravians Union (ORU) in collaboration with the GCU Sports Board. It drew former Pakistan cricketers Saleem Malik, Mohammad Hafeez and Aamir Sohail, along with eminent alumni from different walks of life. International umpire Aleem Dar, actor Khalid Abbas Dar and GCU Director Sports Muhammad Waseem were also present. GCU Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Muhammad Omer Chaudhry captained the Vice Chancellor XI, while ORU President Athar Ismail led the Old Ravians XI.
After winning the toss, Old Ravians XI posted 206 for 4 in 20 overs. Athar Ismail scored 46, Muhammad Ali struck 70, while Saleem Malik contributed 24. In reply, the Vice Chancellor XI matched the total, finishing on 206 in the allotted overs to level the match. Muhammad Ayaz anchored the chase with a century.
Speaking after the match, Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Muhammad Omer Chaudhry said the gathering carried a message for current students that the Ravian bond remains strong across generations and that alumni engagement continues to be a defining part of GCU’s culture.
ORU President Athar Ismail said the festival fixture provides Old Ravians an opportunity to reconnect with one another and with their alma mater, adding that participation by overseas alumni and leading cricketers reflected the unity of the Ravian community.