International Hockey Returns to Pakistan as Dutch and German Club Teams Take the Field
A significant step has been taken to revive hockey in Pakistan, as Dutch and German hockey clubs have arrived in Lahore at the invitation of the Prime Minister Youth Program. Their arrival signals growing international confidence in hosting sporting events in Pakistan. After cricket, the return of international hockey is a positive development, offering Pakistani players an excellent learning opportunity while delighting hockey enthusiasts.
The Dutch team consists of 22 members, while the German squad has 32 players. A warm reception awaited them at Lahore Airport, where former hockey players and officials welcomed the teams. This initiative aims to reignite the popularity of hockey in Pakistan, a sport that was once the national pride but has been in decline for years.
The matches will be played in Lahore and Islamabad, allowing Pakistani players to showcase their skills against European teams. On February 12, the Dutch club team will face the Prime Minister Youth Program and Punjab Police PHF Development Squad in Lahore. The German club team will play against the same squad on February 14. A special exhibition match is scheduled for February 16 in Islamabad.
Pakistan was once one of the world’s strongest hockey nations, having won three Olympic gold medals and four World Cup titles. However, the sport has suffered a steep decline, with performance levels dropping at the international stage. The country also faces a severe lack of hockey infrastructure and facilities. Financial struggles and government neglect have further weakened the Pakistan Hockey Federation. In this scenario, the arrival of Dutch and German club teams is a positive step, rekindling hope that with the right measures, Pakistan hockey can regain its former glory.
The presence of foreign teams brings multiple benefits. Firstly, it demonstrates renewed international confidence in Pakistan’s ability to host sports events. Over the past few years, foreign cricket teams have gradually resumed tours to Pakistan, and if hockey follows the same pattern, more international teams may be willing to visit. Additionally, Pakistani players will gain exposure to modern hockey techniques, which can help improve their performance in future national and international competitions.
This event is a beacon of hope for the revival of hockey in Pakistan, but the real test lies in whether such initiatives will continue in the long run or remain one-off efforts. If the government, the Pakistan Hockey Federation, and private sponsors collaborate, hockey in Pakistan can reclaim its prestigious status on the global stage. Extensive media coverage and sponsorship investments are crucial to restoring the sport’s lost prominence.
For Pakistani hockey fans, this is a rare opportunity to witness world-class hockey action and contribute to efforts aimed at reviving the sport. If utilized effectively, this could mark the beginning of a new era for hockey in Pakistan.
By: Abdul Ghaffar Khan