LAHORE: Preparations are underway to launch a hockey league in Pakistan modeled on the country’s successful franchise-based cricket competitions, with the aim of providing financial stability to the national sport, creating sustainable earning opportunities for players and giving young talent a platform to develop.
The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) is targeting the first edition of the league for the first quarter of next year in Lahore, with six to eight franchise teams expected to participate.
The league is being developed under PHF Ad Hoc President Mohiuddin Wani, with a proposed major role for private-sector investors and businesses. Private partners are expected to contribute to the organization of the competition, formation of teams and provision of financial resources.
League Aims to Create New Opportunities for Players
The proposed league is intended to provide a more sustainable financial model for Pakistani hockey while creating regular earning opportunities for players.
Pakistan national team player Abdul Hanan Shahid has described the proposed league as a need of the hour. He said Pakistani players already represent major clubs in different countries and are highly regarded internationally for their abilities.
According to Shahid, bringing that level of hockey to audiences in Pakistan could help increase public interest in the national sport and inspire younger players.
With six to eight franchises planned for the inaugural season, the proposed competition could provide a new domestic platform for established players as well as emerging talent. Its long-term impact, however, will depend on investment, organization and the ability to build sustained public and commercial interest.