PCB chief pledges support for hockey revival

LAHORE: The Netherlands Embassy hosted a high-profile reception for visiting Dutch and German hockey club teams in Lahore yesterday, marking a significant moment in sports diplomacy between the nations, with Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi as the chief guest.

Netherlands Ambassador Henny de Vries praised Naqvi’s diplomatic initiatives in sports, particularly highlighting his efforts to bridge cricket and hockey. The visiting teams, accompanied by embassy staff, toured the renovated Gaddafi Stadium, with the Ambassador expressing admiration for the venue’s transformation ahead of the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy.

“Gaddafi Stadium has become an incredibly beautiful stadium. We hope the Pakistani team will perform excellently in the ICC Champions Trophy tournament,” de Vries said, while commending Naqvi’s dual commitment to cricket and hockey development. Naqvi used the occasion to extend invitations to the Dutch and German club players for the Champions Trophy’s opening ceremony and first match in Karachi.

“Hockey is our national sport, and alongside cricket, we want to see Pakistan’s flag fly high in hockey as well,” Naqvi stated, highlighting Pakistani coaches’ international achievements, including Farid Ahmad’s role with the Dutch team and Khawaja Junaid’s contributions to hockey development. The PCB chairman expressed confidence in Pakistan’s prospects for the upcoming Champions Trophy, drawing inspiration from their 2017 victory. The reception underscored Pakistan’s efforts to strengthen international sporting ties while showcasing the country’s capability to host major sporting events.