ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has announced a cash reward of Rs1.5 million for each player of the Pakistan national field hockey team after the side secured qualification for the 2026 Men’s FIH Hockey World Cup.
According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, the reward recognises the players’ dedication and performance in the World Cup qualifying tournament and aims to encourage the revival and development of hockey in Pakistan.
The announcement came after Pakistan booked its place in the global event by defeating Japan men’s national field hockey team 4–3 in the semi-final of the qualifiers held in Cairo. The victory ensured Pakistan’s return to the sport’s flagship tournament after an eight-year gap.
Officials said the national team’s campaign generated strong interest among hockey supporters across the country and highlighted the players’ perseverance during the qualifying competition.
Pakistan later faced England men’s national field hockey team in the final of the qualifiers, where they lost 4–1.
The 2026 Hockey World Cup is scheduled to begin on August 14 and will be jointly hosted by Belgium and Netherlands.
Pakistan last appeared in the tournament in 2018 after failing to qualify for the most recent edition.
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