Teams observe one-minute silence to pay homage to martyrs

RAWALPINDI: In a poignant display of national solidarity and remembrance, the Pindi Stadium fell into a hushed silence ahead of the high-voltage Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season X clash between Islamabad United and Quetta Gladiators on Wednesday.

One-minute silence was observed in the honour of the martyrs, who lost their lives in a brutal and unprovoked Indian airstrike earlier that morning in Bahawalpur. The tragic incident claimed the lives of several civilians, including children, as a mosque in the border city was targeted in what has been widely condemned as a barbaric act of aggression.

In a swift and resolute response, Pakistan’s armed forces retaliated with precision, shooting down five Indian fighter jets within hours, sending a clear message of deterrence and strength.

As the silence concluded, the stadium resounded with the passionate voices of thousands as the national anthem of Pakistan was sung in unison. Players from both the teams stood shoulder to shoulder, joined by spectators, all paying their respects and reaffirming their unity in the face of adversity.

The emotional prelude to the match transformed the evening into more than just a sporting event -- it became a symbol of resilience, patriotism, and collective mourning for the lives unjustly taken.