Pakistan name squad for Pro Hockey League

The same squad will also feature in the World Cup Qualifiers

ISLAMABAD:

The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has announced the national squad for the Pro Hockey League and the World Cup Qualifying round. The national contingent consists of 20 players and six officials, with the team scheduled to depart for Australia on February 2nd.

While announcing the team at the Naseer Bunda Hockey Stadium, PHF Secretary Rana Mujahid Ali Khan and Head Coach Tahir Zaman stated that the squad traveling to Australia will also represent Pakistan in the World Cup Qualifiers. Mohammad Ammad Butt will lead the Green Shirts as captain.

Rana Mujahid mentioned that the issue of players' daily allowances has been taken up with the government, and all outstanding dues will be cleared by Friday.

Squad Updates & Composition

Two changes have been made to the Pro League squad: Ali Raza replaces goalkeeper Abdullah Ishtiaq. Umair Sattar joins the team in place of Mannan Raza.

The Full Squad: Muneeb-ur-Rehman, Ali Raza, Arshad Liaqat, Mohammad Abdullah, Sufyan Khan, Arbaz Ahmed, Hammad Anjum, Moin Shakeel, Ghazanfar Ali, Zakaria Liaqat, Umair Sattar, Hannan Shahid, Rana Waheed, Nadeem Ahmed, Abdul Rehman, Rana Waleed, Afraz, and Abu Bakar.

Team Officials: Head Coach Tahir Zaman, Mohammad Usman, Zeeshan Ashraf, Nadeem Lodhi, Mohammad Aslam, and Adeel.

Coaching & Captain’s Outlook: Head Coach Tahir Zaman remarked that facing powerhouse teams like Australia and Germany will be a challenge. However, the national team is set to play 16 matches before the World Cup, providing an excellent opportunity for preparation. He noted that after a long hiatus, Pakistan finally has the chance to compete against top-tier teams.

Captain Mohammad Ammad Butt added that player morale is high and things are moving in the right direction. He expressed hope that the Prime Minister would continue to further support the national sport.