With Pakistan set to play Bangladesh in a three-match crucial series, the squad has sparked debates and controversies.
Pakistan’s Training Camp for the Hockey World Cup Qualifiers
On 26 October, the Pakistan National Hockey team began their preparatory camp at the Naseer Bunda Hockey Stadium. The camp was held in preparation for the three-match series against Bangladesh from 13-16 November, which will act as a qualifier for the 2026 Hockey World Cup Qualifiers.
Squad Overview
On the 7th of November, the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) announced the 18-man travelling squad, with Ammad Butt as the Captain. The squad mainly consists of the players who were part of the squad for the Nations Cup in July. The squad includes Hannan Shahid, who recently captained the Junior Team at the Sultan of Johor Cup in Malaysia. Other than that, the squad features the likes of Rana Waheed, Sufyan Khan, Muneeb ur Rehman and Zikiriya Hayat. Rana Waleed, who gave impressive performances at the Rana Zaheer Memorial Hockey Tournament and the Sultan of Johor Cup, is also a part of the squad.
ALSO READ
- Pakistan Announce 18-Man Squad for Bangladesh Hockey Series
- PAK vs SA ODI Series Review: Pakistan Mark Faisalabad Return with Series Win
Head Coach Controversy
However, discussions have arisen after Head Coach Tahir Zaman refused to travel with the team. Reportedly, Zaman asked all players who were playing in leagues abroad to report to the camp by the 28th of October. Whilst most players came by the 31st, Rana Waheed and Hammaduddin arrived late. Tahir Zaman then recommended their exclusion, stating it as a disciplinary measure. The PHF, however, refused to exclude them, stating that they are a vital part of the team and that it was unfair, but Zaman insisted on strict discipline. After negotiations, Zaman refused to travel and is unlikely to return to the setup after the Bangladesh Series.
Upcoming Schedule
Pakistan will face Bangladesh on the 13th, 14th and 16th of November in a three-match series. The winner will move on to the FIH World Cup Qualifiers scheduled to be held later on. This series will act as a Round 1 qualifier for the World Cup. Pakistan is also reportedly scheduled to play friendlies against Spain later this month, leading to the FIH Pro League beginning in December. Other than the Pro League, Pakistan will also take part in the Asian Games next year.
Previous Outings
Pakistan’s Junior Team recently played the Sultan of Johor Cup in Malaysia. Pakistan beat Malaysia 7-2 in their opening game. They then played Great Britain and lost 5-1. In their third game, they played arch-rivals India in a nail-biting 3-3 draw. Following that, Pakistan faced New Zealand and Australia, losing 3-2 and drawing 3-3 respectively. Though they failed to make it to the final, they qualified for the 3rd place playoff against Great Britain. Eventually, they lost 3-2 and ended the tournament on a low note, having been seen as contenders for the title before the event.
The senior team last featured in July, at the FIH Nations Cup in Malaysia. Pakistan drew 3-3 to Malaysia, won 3-2 to Japan and lost 4-3 to New Zealand in the Group Stage. The semifinals saw them face France in a game that ended 3-3 and went to penalties. Pakistan emerged victorious nonetheless, winning 3-2 on penalties. In the final, New Zealand dominated with a 6-2 scoreline, lifting the trophy.
With the Pro League, Asian Games and friendlies awaiting, Pakistan has a solid chance to build a strong side.
ALSO READ
