Former players pledge support for hockey team

LAHORE: Olympians Khawaja Junaid and Qamar Ibrahim have stepped up efforts to provide support for the upcoming national hockey tournament.

“In the past, our achievements were not always recognised,” Junaid told The News here. “We want to change that,” he added. Junaid drew parallels with cricket, highlighting the inspiring journey of young hockey players. “Just like cricket, where young talent dreams of playing for the national team, our hockey players also have a dream,” he said. “That dream has now materialised,” he added.

The support from key figures in the government further validates the players’ commitment. Prime Minister Mian Shahbaz Sharif, Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir, and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif have all pledged their unwavering support for the hockey players. Not only have they promised to stand by the athletes, but they have also rewarded them with well-deserved accolades.

Rana Mashhood, Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Program, played a pivotal role in steering hockey back on track. His guidance and directives ensured that the sport was aligned with the right direction. The players’ unity and determination were further bolstered when they received support from the masses.