Rana Tahir Shahbaz
Pakistan’s national game, hockey, has been overshadowed by the overwhelming popularity of cricket in the country. Despite being a national pride and a source of unforgettable moments in history, hockey has been neglected by the government and private sectors, which have chosen to focus their support and resources on cricket.
This lack of attention has resulted in Pakistani youth being drawn away from other healthy games and toward cricket alone. The media, including journalists, newspapers, TV channels, and social media platforms, have also contributed to the dominance of cricket in Pakistan, leaving little room for other sports to gain traction.
Cricket, which was once considered a gentleman’s game, has become a multi-billion-dollar industry that has consumed the country’s sports landscape. The sport’s excessive commercialization has led to a decline in its ethical standards, with match-fixing, spot-fixing, and other forms of corruption becoming rampant.
Furthermore, cricket’s dominance has also led to a lack of investment in other sports infrastructure, resulting in inadequate facilities and equipment for athletes. This has made it difficult for Pakistani athletes to compete at the international level, leading to a decline in the country’s overall sports performance.
Pakistan has a rich history of excellence in various sports, including squash and hockey. The country has been a world champion in these sports, and it is essential for the government and commercial organizations to recognize and support this diversity of talent.
By focusing solely on cricket, Pakistan risks losing its edge in other sports. It is crucial for the country to promote and develop its hockey talent, as well as other sports, to ensure a well-rounded and vibrant sports culture.
The Pakistan Hockey Federation has been working tirelessly to promote and develop hockey in the country, but more needs to be done to revive the national game’s former glory. The government and private sectors must take a more inclusive approach to sports development, providing equal support and resources to all sports, including hockey.
Only by doing so can Pakistan ensure that its youth have access to a diverse range of sports and opportunities, and that the country’s national pride in hockey is revived and celebrated.
