In a move that has lifted the spirits of fans and players alike, Caretaker Prime Minister Mohsin Naqvi Grants Rs1M Reward to Hockey Team The gesture comes as recognition for the team’s recent fighting performances and has ignited fresh hopes of reviving the country’s national sport.
A Boost for Pakistan’s Forgotten National Game
Once the jewel of Pakistan’s sporting crown, hockey brought home multiple Olympic medals, World Cup trophies, and Champions Trophy victories. But decades of neglect, poor management, and lack of funding pushed the game to the sidelines.
Naqvi’s announcement isn’t just about money—it’s being seen as a symbolic push to bring hockey back into the spotlight. By rewarding the players, the Prime Minister has sent a strong message: the government wants to stand by its athletes and restore the glory days of Pakistan hockey.
Why This Reward Matters
For the players, many of whom come from modest backgrounds, the Rs 1 million cash prize means much more than financial support. It’s a sign of respect for their hard work and a boost to their morale. For years, hockey stars have struggled without recognition, while cricket dominated the headlines.
This recognition could also inspire the younger generation to take up hockey again, proving that it still has a future in Pakistan.X
Pakistan’s Golden Hockey Legacy
Pakistan’s bond with hockey runs deep. The nation won its first Olympic gold in 1960 and went on to dominate the sport globally for decades—securing three Olympic golds (1960, 1968, 1984) and four World Cup titles (1971, 1978, 1982, 1994).
But the last two decades told a different story. Poor infrastructure, lack of academies, and inadequate sponsorship led to a rapid decline. Naqvi’s reward is seen as a way to reconnect with that glorious past and rekindle hopes of a comeback.
How Players and Fans Reacted
The hockey team welcomed the announcement with gratitude, calling it a morale booster ahead of international events. Fans, too, flooded social media with praise for Naqvi, saying that hockey deserves long-term support, not just one-time rewards. READ NEXT https://elevenpakistan.com/rizwan-congratulates-asia-cup-squad-best-wishes/
Former hockey legends echoed the same sentiment. While they applauded the reward, they also stressed that real change requires proper planning—strong grassroots programs, better facilities, and exposure to international competition.
The Bigger Picture: Long-Term Support Needed
Sports experts argue that cash rewards, while encouraging, cannot fix the deeper problems hockey faces. For a true revival, Pakistan needs:
- Modern infrastructure — more academies and stadiums across the country.
- Financial stability — monthly contracts and stipends for players.
- Professional coaching — local and international experts to train future stars.
- Grassroots programs — making hockey accessible in schools and colleges.
- Corporate sponsorships — to bring much-needed funding and media visibility.
Without these, the excitement generated by rewards might fade too quickly.
A Wake-Up Call for Government
Naqvi’s move has also reignited the debate on how Pakistan treats sports other than cricket. While the country has immense talent in hockey, squash, athletics, and football, these sports often struggle for resources and recognition.
If Pakistan wants to become a true sporting nation, experts say the government must support multiple sports—not just cricket. The hockey reward could be the first step toward that vision.
Looking Ahead
With international tournaments around the corner, this boost could not have come at a better time. It gives players a sense of pride, shows the world that Pakistan still values hockey, and provides a much-needed push to restore the sport’s reputation.
Conclusion
Mohsin Naqvi’s announcement of a Rs 1 million cash prize for the hockey team is more than just financial aid—it’s a reminder of Pakistan’s glorious past in the sport and a promise for its future.
For players, it’s recognition. For fans, it’s hope. And for the government, it’s a responsibility to keep the momentum going.
Pakistan hockey may have stumbled in recent years, but with consistent support, it just might rise again.
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