ISLAMABAD: With eyes firmly set on international glory and a coveted spot in the prestigious FIH Pro League, the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has unveiled a formidable 20-member squad for the FIH Nations Cup, scheduled to kick off on June 15 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
The Greenshirts will depart for Malaysia on June 8, with the hopes and aspirations of a nation resting on their shoulders. As Pakistan hockey continues its climb back to the international elite, all eyes will be on Kuala Lumpur as this determined squad battles to reclaim the glory of yesteryears.
The squad, a strategic blend of experienced campaigners and promising new talent, is geared up to face off against some of the world’s strongest teams. This tournament not only offers a platform for fierce competition but also serves as a direct qualification pathway to the elite FIH Pro League — a golden opportunity Pakistan are determined to seize.
The selection saw five changes making their way into the national side from the side that won bronze medal in the Champions Trophy held in China a few months back. Some new comers are also there, a move reflecting PHF’s focus on talent development and long-term planning.
The changes include Mohammad Abdullah, Abdul Mannan, Junaid Manzoor, Mohibullah, and Rana Abdul Waleed each bringing a unique flair and dynamism to the squad.
PHF Secretary Rana Mujahid announced the squad in the presence of PHF President Tariq Bugti and Head Coach Tahir Zaman, emphasizing that the selection was based purely on merit and rigorous performance evaluation during the training camp.
“Following the weeks of intense training and assessments, the head coach, in consultation with the team management, finalized the squad purely on the basis of players’ performances,” he stated.
Responding to questions about the absence of a formal selection committee, Mujahid clarified: “Just as we have empowered foreign coaches in the past to make key decisions, we have followed a similar approach with Tahir Zaman, who is an FIH High-Performance Coach. The team management comprising Zeeshan Ashraf and Mohammad Usman has been given full authority to lead this important assignment.”
Acknowledging the logistical and financial hurdles involved in participating in such international tournaments, PHF extended heartfelt thanks to the Ministry for Inter-Provincial Coordination, Secretary Mohyuddin Wani, and Pakistan Sports Board Director General Yasir Peerzada for their unwavering support, especially in securing air travel arrangements.
“It’s not easy in today’s economic climate to send a team abroad,” Mujahid added. “In addition to flights, PHF is bearing costs for hotel stays and daily allowances each player receives a substantial per diem while on tour. These efforts are only possible with the continued backing of our sponsors and partners.”
PTCL and other sponsors were also appreciated for stepping up to support national hockey, with PHF reiterating its commitment to expanding funding and resources for the sport at all levels.
PHF President Tariq Bugti also revealed that efforts are underway to bring a major international hockey event to Pakistan next year. “We are actively in contact with the FIH, pushing for hosting rights to a global tournament. The revival of international hockey on home soil remains a top priority.”
Meanwhile, Head Coach Tahir Zaman expressed confidence in the squad’s readiness and ambitions. “This team has undergone intense preparation and is capable of challenging the very best. Our mission is clear: win the Nations Cup and secure our place in the Pro League. The boys are motivated and fully prepared.”
Squad: Goalkeepers: Muneebur Rehman, Abdullah Ishtaq. Outfield players: Ammad Butt (Captain), Mohammad Abdullah, Sufyan Khan, Abdul Mannan, Ammad Anjum, Arshad Liaquat, Moin Shakil, Zakria Hayat, Ghazanfar Ali, Salman Razzak, Junaid Manzoor, Hanan Shahid, Rana Waheed, Afraz Khan, Abdul Rehman, Ahmad Nadeem, Mohibullah, Rana Waleed.
Team officials: Tahir Zaman (Head Coach), Mohammad Usman (Manager), Zeeshan Ashraf (Coach), Nadeem Khan Lodhi (Video Analyst), Aslam (Physio).
Tournament Fixtures: June 15 – vs Malaysia.
June 16 – vs Japan.
June 18 – vs New Zealand.
June 20 – Semi-Finals.
June 21 – Final.
