ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday announced a cash prize of Rs1.5 million for each player of the national hockey team in recognition of their outstanding performance in the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 Qualifiers.
The Prime Minister’s announcement came after Pakistan’s spirited run in the qualifiers held in Ismailia, Egypt, where the Green Shirts secured their place in the upcoming World Cup. Pakistan stunned Japan with a dramatic 4–3 comeback in the semi-final, ensuring qualification after missing the 2022 edition.
In the group stage, Pakistan defeated Austria 4–2, displaying attacking flair and resilience. The semi-final against Japan proved historic: trailing 3–1, Pakistan rallied to equalize before netting a last-minute winner. The victory was celebrated as a revival moment for national hockey.
Although Pakistan lost 4–1 to England in the final, the team finished runners-up in the qualifiers, a result that guarantees their participation in the 2026 World Cup.
The prime minister, in a statement, said that the qualification for the World Cup was recognition of the players’ hard work and dedication to the sport, besides being a significant step toward promoting and reviving hockey in Pakistan.
He said that the national hockey team’s participation in the World Cup qualifiers generated immense enthusiasm among fans.
Prime Minister Shehbaz said that the cash prize was a resounding tribute to the determination of the players.
