PM Shehbaz announces Rs1.5mn cash reward for each national hockey player

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Monday announced a reward of Rs1.5 million for each player of the national hockey team in recognition of their outstanding performance in the World Cup Qualifiers.

“This initiative is not only an acknowledgement of the team’s hard work and dedication to the sport but also a major step toward the promotion of hockey in Pakistan,” read a statement issued by the PM Office Media Wing.

The participation of the national hockey team in the World Cup Qualifiers has ignited passion and enthusiasm among hockey fans, and this reward serves as a clear testament to their perseverance, it added.

Pakistan defeated Japan 4–3 in a thrilling semifinal of the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 Qualifiers in Ismailia, Egypt, on March 6, securing a place in the final and confirming their qualification for the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026.

READ MORE: Pakistan qualify for 2026 hockey world cup after eight years

According to the information, the high-intensity encounter saw Pakistan stage a remarkable comeback after trailing during the match.

Pakistan took the lead in the first quarter, but Japan fought back and equalised in the second quarter. Japan then scored twice in the third quarter to take a 3–1 lead, putting Pakistan under immense pressure.

However, the Green Shirts displayed remarkable resilience in the final quarter, scoring three goals to turn the match around and seal a dramatic 4–3 victory.

For Pakistan, Muhammad Ammad, Abu Bakar Mahmood, Sufyan Khan and Afraz scored one goal each. Muhammad Ammad was declared the Player of the Match for his outstanding performance against Japan.

According to match statistics, Pakistan dominated the attacking play with 28 circle penetrations compared to Japan’s 17, reflecting their aggressive approach throughout the contest.

With this victory, Pakistan not only advanced to the final of the qualifiers but also ensured their participation in the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026.