In a significant gesture to honor the exceptional achievements of Pakistan’s men’s national field hockey team, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced on Monday a generous cash reward of Rs1.5 million for every player. This announcement comes in the wake of the team’s successful qualification for the prestigious FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup 2026, a milestone that marks a major comeback for Pakistan after an eight-year absence from the tournament.
The Prime Minister expressed his admiration for the players’ relentless hard work and unwavering commitment, emphasizing that their qualification is not only a testament to their individual and collective efforts but also a crucial step towards revitalizing the sport of hockey in Pakistan. He highlighted that the team’s impressive performance during the World Cup qualifiers has rekindled a wave of enthusiasm and pride among hockey fans across the nation, who have long awaited such a moment of triumph.
Shehbaz Sharif further elaborated that this substantial cash prize serves as a token of appreciation for the players’ dedication and determination. He encouraged the team to maintain their focus and continue striving for excellence as they prepare to compete on the world stage. The Prime Minister assured that the government remains fully committed to providing all necessary support and facilities to help the players enhance their training and performance ahead of the upcoming tournament.
Reflecting on the team’s journey, the Prime Minister recalled his message to the players on Saturday, where he urged them to keep up their hard work and passion. He expressed confidence that with sustained effort and discipline, the national team could achieve remarkable success and bring further glory to Pakistan. This renewed focus on hockey aligns with broader efforts to restore Pakistan’s historic status as a powerhouse in the sport.
Meanwhile, the thrilling semifinal match against Japan at the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 Qualifiers held in Ismailia, Egypt, on Friday showcased the team’s resilience and fighting spirit. Pakistan secured a narrow 4-3 victory in a high-stakes encounter that saw dramatic shifts in momentum. The Green Shirts initially took the lead in the first quarter, only for Japan to level the score in the second quarter. Japan then surged ahead with two goals in the third quarter, placing Pakistan under intense pressure.
However, Pakistan’s players demonstrated remarkable composure and determination in the final quarter, mounting an impressive comeback by scoring three consecutive goals. This stunning turnaround not only clinched the semifinal win but also guaranteed Pakistan’s place in the final and confirmed their qualification for the 2026 Hockey World Cup. This victory has been hailed as a symbol of Pakistan’s enduring hockey legacy and the promising future of the sport in the country.
