The UAE News report: Footprint Desert Super League (DSL) Season 10 opening ceremony was held at GEMS World Academy – Dubai on 10 September 2022, with media partner Samaa TV.
In attendance addressing the captains of this season and GEMS students was Wasim Akram, former Pakistan National Cricket Team Captain, one of the greatest left-handed fast bowlers taking over 900 wickets in international cricket.
Wasim Akram attended in full spirit and shared a few inspiring stories and his wisdom on sports leadership and strategy. He emphasized the element of not giving up and facing every situation with your head held high. Wasim Akram also shared some inspiring tips on how to maintain a warrior, winning mentality resonated with and inspired the audience of cricket enthusiasts of all ages.
Wasim also took part in a lively panel discussion led by Omar Hayat, the owner of DSL; and involved fellow speakers Hamid Shabir, Co-founder of Footprint Real Estate; Muhammad Raziq, Executive Director of International Operations at Samaa TV; and Dr Saima Rana, Principal/CEO of GEMS World Academy – Dubai and a Vice President – Education of GEMS Education.
When asked what motivated him to continue performing at a top level, Wasim Akram replied, “It was a dream come true for me, and since then I said to myself, I want this feeling for all my life, so that’s why I worked hard and played 20 years for Pakistan”
Muhammad Raziq, Executive Director of International Operations at Samaa TV, also shed light on the role of media and its influence on sport and vice versa. With the influence of media and the role of sport in today’s world can be used effectively to bring a lot of positivity and hope. On behalf of Samaa TV, Muhammad Raziq presented an award to Wasim Akram for his contribution to Pakistan Cricket and International Sport.
A truly lively and engaging panel discussion that entertained not just questions about cricket, but leadership, the role of media in sports as well as the benefit of the community that is being built by DSL. Community engagement and positivity are the reason why Footprint is the title sponsor of the league. – abdulbasit@theuaenews.com
