International Hockey Re-Establishes Presence in Pakistan with…

The German Junior Hockey Team has arrived in Pakistan for a four-match series, marking the return of international hockey after 15 years. The initiative aims to offer Pakistani junior players exposure ahead of the 2025 Hockey Junior World Cup. Field hockey, once a proud national sport, has faced decline due to various systemic issues.

The arrival of the German Junior Hockey Team in Islamabad heralds the return of international hockey to Pakistan, a significant event after nearly 15 years. This unprecedented occurrence is part of a four-match series intended to revitalize the sport in the country, as confirmed by the government’s press department.

Prior to this series, the last international hockey event took place seven years ago when China participated in the ‘Friendship Series.’ The last substantial international match hosted by Pakistan was the Champions Trophy in 2004; however, foreign teams have largely avoided the country due to security concerns since then.

The reluctance of foreign teams to visit Pakistan intensified following the 2001 September 11 attacks and the subsequent attack on the Sri Lankan cricket team in March 2009, which isolated Pakistan on the international sports front.

This incoming series aims to provide crucial international exposure to Pakistani junior players under the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, as stated by the Pakistan Information Department. The matches will take place with one in Islamabad and three in Lahore between March 6 and March 13, offering an exciting opportunity for local fans.

The significance of the series also lies in its preparation for the Hockey Junior World Cup slated for 2025 in India. This event represents a chance for both teams to gauge their readiness for the upcoming competition.

Field hockey, once a source of national pride for Pakistan, has suffered from declining interest and participation over the past two decades. This decline can be attributed to management issues, inadequate infrastructure, and cricket’s increasing dominance in the region. Additionally, a failure to modernize the sport has exacerbated this situation. Currently, Pakistan is ranked 15th in the world by the International Hockey Federation.

The arrival of the German Junior Hockey Team marks a pivotal moment for the revival of international hockey in Pakistan after years of isolation. The upcoming four-match series, aimed at providing international exposure to young players, represents both a strategic initiative under government leadership and an opportunity to rekindle interest in the sport. However, for hockey to regain its former glory in Pakistan, addressing the underlying issues of management, infrastructure, and modernization will be essential.

Original Source: www.arabnews.com