Ahsan Iqbal, a former Pakistan hockey player, has called for increased efforts to revive the nation’s hockey legacy. Speaking at a recent sports conference, Iqbal emphasized the importance of investing in youth development and infrastructure to restore Pakistan’s former dominance in the sport.
Iqbal pointed to the decline in international rankings and the lack of competitive success in recent years. He noted that Pakistan once held a strong position in global hockey circles but has struggled to maintain that status. “We need to create better training facilities and support young talent from an early age,” Iqbal said.
The former player also criticized the current lack of government support and private sector involvement in hockey. “Without proper funding and attention, it will be difficult to compete at the world level,” he added. Iqbal’s comments come amid growing concerns about the state of sports in Pakistan, where funding for many disciplines remains limited.
Hockey has historically been a source of national pride for Pakistan, with the team winning multiple medals in the Commonwealth Games and Asian Championships. However, recent years have seen a steady decline in performance and participation. Iqbal’s call for action reflects a broader push among former athletes to influence policy and investment in sports.
