LAHORE - Under the umbrella of Rawalpindi-Islamabad Sports Journalists Association (RISJA), the first RISJA Inter-Media Independence Cup got underway on Saturday evening, when Federal Minister for Communication and Postal Services Murad Saeed inaugurated the event at the National Ground. Speaking on the occasion, Minister Murad Saeed expressed excitement on the RISJA’s decision to hold an inter-media event. “Journalists stay busy all the time, keeping the country updated on news. They also need entertainment. I hope that the event will help them to have some fun.” Murad Saeed said he always supported healthy activities. “By such a way you stay active and healthy which is important.” He thanked sponsors Park View and RISJA for making efforts to orgnanise the event. Murad Saeeed criticized Indian government behaviour meant to discourage foreign players from taking part in the Kashmir Premier League (KPL). “The Indian government and their cricketing board behaviour clearly mean that they are afraid of KPL popularity. They are using negative tactics to pressurize foreign players which is totally unjust.” Eight leading Media Group teams including Parliamentarian, Geo, Dunya, Samaa, Express, Bol, Hum, Dawn, ARY and hosts RISJA teams are competing in the event. Rs 500,000 will be awarded to the winners of the event while Rs 250,000 will be given to the runners-up. There are also cash prizes for the best bowler and batsmen of the tournament and man of each match. Ten teams have been divided into two groups. Zain Qureshi (MNA) will lead the star-studded Parliamentarian team, which includes leading MNAs, who won the international tournament held in England in 2018. Former Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Governing Board member Shakil Sheikh also spoke on the occasion and highlighted the importance of sports events for journalists. “It is encouraging to see all leading media houses taking part in the event.” Chairman RISJA Mohi Shah thanked guests for taking time out. President RISJA Ayaz Akbar highlighted salient features of the event.