PSB expecting results from cash-strapped sports bodies

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) that has virtually become inefficient is now taking interest in the national teams’ preparations for the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games.

The PSB, which has stopped even meager grants to sports federations for almost a year, in a letter to the Pakistan Olympic Association has inquired about the teams’ preparations and expected medal tally in the Olympics.

It seems odd as the PSB is well aware that to win an Olympic medal almost a decade of effort backed by finances for international exposure is required. Pakistan has won an Olympic gold only in hockey — the last one in 1984. Besides hockey, the country has only achieved bronze medals in wrestling (early 1960s) and boxing (1988). Even when Pakistan sports were booming in the 50s and mid-70s, Pakistan never even came close to winning an Olympic gold in other disciplines.

Pakistan’s hockey is in its worst ever shape currently. The country’s performance in major international events has not been up to the mark in recent times. One wonders whether Pakistan will even qualify for next year’s Olympics after missing the Rio Games.

Now when the PSB has stopped grants to sports federations and because of it there are no camps and activities it is unjust to even ask about Pakistan’s chances in the 2020 Games.

Ever since Dr Akhtar Nawaz Ganjera retired, the PSB seems quiet as far as activities are concerned. Irrespective of what Ganjera’s legal battles are these days, he was one of the PSB director generals who knew the importance of keeping athletes active throughout his stay.

It is pertinent on the PSB and even on the Ministry of Inter Provincial Coordination (IPC) to first start generating activities by organising much needed training camps and support players/athletes for international exposure and then start asking about their chances in international events.