Pakistan Junior Hockey Team captain Hanan Shahid shared that his handshake with Indian players during the Sultan of Johor Cup was more than just a sporting gesture. According to him, it symbolized peace, friendship, and mutual respect between two rival nations. “By shaking hands with Indian players, we wanted to send a message of peace to the entire world,” said Hanan while speaking to the media after the tournament.
Reflections on Tournament Performance
Hanan Shahid, who was also named the Best Player of the Sultan of Johor Cup, reflected on his team’s performance in the event. He explained the challenges of playing six international matches within eight days, emphasizing how the tight schedule made recovery and rest nearly impossible.
“It wasn’t easy to maintain consistency with such a demanding schedule,” he said. “Whenever we had a rest day before a match, our performance was much better. But when we had back-to-back matches, fatigue affected our game.”
Challenges Facing Hockey in Pakistan
The young captain also addressed the declining popularity of hockey in Pakistan. Once known as the country’s national sport and a source of pride, hockey has lost much of its glamour and following. “Today, most young athletes prefer other sports. There’s a shortage of players, no job opportunities, and very few facilities for hockey players,” Hanan noted.
He added that the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) struggles with limited funds, which affects the team’s preparation and exposure to international competition. “It’s very important for our players to gain experience by playing more international matches. Without that, improvement becomes difficult,” he said.
Long-Term Planning Needed for Success
Hanan Shahid believes that short training camps and temporary strategies cannot bring lasting results. “You can’t expect big victories with just two or three weeks of training camps,” he said. “The management should be given at least two years, along with proper resources. Only then can they be held accountable for the team’s performance.”
Looking Ahead
Despite the challenges, Hanan remains hopeful for the future of Pakistan hockey. His message of peace and professionalism on and off the field reflects the values that once made Pakistan a global hockey powerhouse. “If we work together with patience, planning, and unity, there’s no reason Pakistan hockey cannot rise again,” he concluded.
