The Pakistan Hockey Federation’s (PHF) ad hoc management has unveiled an ambitious revival plan aimed at restoring the country’s hockey legacy, with a packed international calendar, increased financial support for players, and renewed focus on grassroots and domestic development.
According to a PHF spokesperson, financial resources have been secured for the Under-18, Under-21, and senior national teams, both men and women, to ensure they receive extensive international experience at the highest level.
The spokesperson said that the ad hoc management has planned the busiest international schedule in Pakistan hockey’s history during its first four months in office, with an extensive programme continuing until the end of the year.
As part of the schedule, the senior men’s team will participate in the FIH Hockey World Cup Qualifier in Cairo. The team will also tour Belgium and the United Kingdom to compete in the FIH Pro League.
In addition, the national team is scheduled to tour South Korea in September and will represent Pakistan in the upcoming FIH Hockey World Cup and the Asian Games.
The Under-18 boys’ team will compete in the Under-18 Asia Cup in Japan and the Asian Hockey Five-a-Side Championship in Oman. Meanwhile, the Under-21 men’s team will participate in a bilateral international series in Oman, the Junior Asia Cup in China, and the Sultan of Johor Cup in Malaysia.
An extensive international programme has also been arranged for the women’s teams. The Under-21 women’s team will participate in a junior tournament in Oman, while the Under-18 girls’ team is currently representing Pakistan in the ongoing Under-18 Asia Cup in Oman.
The Pakistan Hockey Federation has also taken significant steps to promote domestic hockey. The Pakistan Under-18 National Championship and the Pakistan Girls’ Under-21 National Championship were successfully organised to identify and showcase emerging talent from across the country. The champion, runner-up, and third-placed teams were awarded substantial cash prizes.
The federation also appreciated the government’s support, noting that it has approved a significant increase in the daily allowances for national players. Under the revised policy, senior national team players will receive a daily allowance of US$110 during overseas tours, while junior players will receive US$65 per day, ensuring better financial support during international competitions.
According to the Pakistan Hockey Federation, this comprehensive programme represents a major step toward improving player welfare, strengthening domestic hockey, and ensuring the consistent participation of Pakistan’s national teams in international competitions. The ultimate goal is to restore Pakistan’s national sport to its former glory on the global stage.
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