PM Imran must be aware of the facilities required to succeed in sports at the international level
KARACHI: I would like to draw the attention of Prime Minister Imran Khan towards the lack of sports facilities for young men and women in the country. As the prime minister himself is from a sports background, he must be aware of the facilities required to succeed in sports at the international level. The PM must be aware of the feeling of playing on a proper cricket pitch, and how that develops one’s skills. Fortunately for those who want to pursue the game of cricket, there are relatively more facilities available for them, such as trainers, cricket grounds and international exposure. However, for young men, like me, who want to pursue other sports such as football, the availability of even a proper football field is nothing less than a dream. It is to be noted here with pride that World Soccer Stars matches are scheduled to take place in Pakistan, and some highly accomplished players such as Puyol have visited Pakistan, while others like Kaka, Anelka and Figo are due to arrive soon. Unfortunately, we lag far behind in international soccer. It would be in the fitness of things if we arranged international hockey matches, as Pakistan has won many hockey Word Cups, gold medals in Olympic Games and many other international championships.
Stars event is supposed to highlight our country as a hub of talent in the international sphere, and also promote football in Pakistan. We should create a proper environment for these stars that will be gracing the event. We must take this opportunity to ensure these stars have a positive image of Pakistan, and our country is able to break through in the international arena. Such events would encourage young players to practise well and this may bring the country up to the international level in all sports, whether it be cricket, hockey or football.
Syed Hamza Bin Ishtiaq
Published in The Express Tribune, April 10th, 2019.
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