Lahore division Top 12 Men's League was held at Nishtar Park Gymnasium Lahore from 18th to 21st of August. Four Tables were allocated for the League matches. Every player had to play a minimum of 5 matches. During the peak Monson Humidity, this League was a Stern Fitness Test for all the Leading Players of Lahore. Unfortunately, No. 1 player Awais Hassan could not participate in the event due to his family commitments. Taimoor Khan Fresh from his Islamic Solidarity Games form participated in the league. Other Notable players include Irtza Ali, Aleem-ud-din, Taha Bilal, Muneeb Khan, Shehryar Awan, Usama Nawaz, Usman Chishti, Hassaan bin Kausar, Amir Asmat, Jaffer Lone and Ans Khurram.
More than 50 matches were played during three days of the League. All Matches were played on best of 5 format. Except Semifinals, players opted to play a bit longer match: best of seven. In the finals, because of extreme humidity. Organizers had to reduce the Match from best of 7 to 5 sets rubber.
It’s a new concept, players felt exhausted but appreciated the format. Lahore Division plans to continue such events to keep the players busy, fit and gain experience for the bigger events.
Semifinals:
Two Extraordinary semifinals took place. All players played, beyond their capacity. It was a sheer entertainment for the Table Tennis Community of Lahore.
First semifinal Result: Taimoor Khan beat Usama Nawaz 4-2 in a best of seven matches. Usama Nawaz proved to be the most improved player in the League. He promises to continue hard work and expects better results during the season.
Second Semifinal:
Irtza Ali beat Taha Bilal 4-3 in the thrilling semifinal. Arguably, it was the Best Match of the Tournament. Taha Bilal was just a breath away from the victory. But Irtza’s experience & patience helped him sail through.
Final:
Irtza Ali played an exceptional match. Taimoor was not at its best, but Irtza Ali dominated in every department and never let him gain any moment. In the 3rd rubber, there was a ray of hope for Taimoor and he won the game. But in the fourth game, Irtza Ali came out all guns blazing and crushed his opponent. He became victorious in the fourth set and becomes 1st ever Lahore Top 12 League winner.