KUALA LUMPUR: The Pakistan national hockey team has reached Malaysia to participate in the Azlan Shah Hockey Tournament, set to kick off on May 4.
Departing from Islamabad International Airport on Thursday, the team, led by Ammad Shakeel Butt with Defender Abu Bakar as his deputy, underwent an intensive two-week training camp at the Naseer Bunda Hockey Stadium to prepare for the mega event.
Pakistan’s campaign in the tournament will open with a match against hosts Malaysia on May 4, followed by fixtures against South Korea on May 5, Japan on May 7, Canada on May 8, and New Zealand on May 10. The tournament’s final will take place on May 11.
The team comprises a blend of experienced players, including goalkeepers Abdullah and Muneeb-ur-Rehman, and defenders Usama Bashir, Athisham, Mohammad Abdullah, Sufiyan, Abu Bakar, and captain Shakeel Butt. The midfield boasts talents like Salman Razzaq, Arshad Liaqat, Moin Shakeel, Zakriya Hayat, Murtaza Yaqoob, and Ghazanfar Ali, while forwards Abdul Rehman, Hanan, Rana Waheed, and Ejaz Ahmed complete the squad.
Moreover, seven players have been selected as standbys, including Akmal Hussain, Aqeel Ahmed, Arbaz, Hammad Anjum, Abdul Rehman Jr., Abdul Manan, and Rooman.
The Azlan Shah Hockey Tournament holds significant importance as one of the premier international hockey competitions. Pakistan’s participation underscores the nation’s esteemed hockey legacy and abundant talent. Expectations are high as fans eagerly anticipate the team’s performance in this esteemed tournament.
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