Pakistan on Wednesday launched Pakistan Hockey League (PHL) at a ceremony in Islamabad in a bid to revive the country’s national sport.
Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) said that it is a joint initiative of the federation and Media Cast, designed to bring together international players, Pakistani talent, corporate sponsors and team owners under a professional competition structure.
Rana Mashhood Ahmed Khan, chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme and chief guest at the launch ceremony, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting hockey’s revival and encouraging investment in the sport.
He welcomed efforts to bring the government, private sector and hockey community together, expressing confidence that the league and other development initiatives would help restore Pakistan’s standing in international hockey.
Khan said the government would continue to support initiatives aimed at developing the sport, nurturing young talent and creating new opportunities for Pakistani players.
PHF President Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani said the federation was committed to sustained reforms, investment and institutional development to strengthen the sport’s foundations.
He said priorities included improving playing standards, upgrading infrastructure, attracting corporate investment, expanding facilities and providing players with better incentives and opportunities.
Wani stressed that restoring Pakistan hockey would require professional management, long-term planning and stronger partnerships between the government and private sector.
“Our commitment is to bring investment into hockey, improve infrastructure, provide better incentives for our players and create an environment in which Pakistan hockey can once again progress and succeed,” he said.
Salman Danish, owner of Media Cast and a partner in the league, said the company would work with the PHF to organise the competition professionally, attract corporate partners and sponsors, and develop a sustainable commercial model for the sport.
Organisers said the league would seek to increase commercial interest in hockey, raise competitive standards and create sustainable investment opportunities. It is also intended to reconnect younger generations with Pakistan’s rich hockey history and traditions.
Pakistan, a former powerhouse in international hockey, has struggled to maintain its position among the sport’s leading nations. The league’s success will depend on attracting investment, establishing a competitive structure and translating commercial interest into long-term development opportunities for players.
