KUALA LUMPUR – The recent performances of the Pakistan national hockey team have reignited interest in the sport and increased fan support across the country, says forward Rana Waheed Ashraf.
His comments came after Pakistan secured a place in the final of the Nations Cup yesterday, following a thrilling 3–2 penalty shootout victory over France after a 3–3 draw at the National Hockey Stadium in Bukit Jalil.
The win also marked their second consecutive appearance in the final of a prestigious tournament, having finished as runners-up in last year’s Sultan Azlan Shah Cup.
Currently ranked 15th in the world, the Green Shirts will face New Zealand in the final of the Nations Cup tonight at 9pm.
Speaking to Scoop after the match, Rana Waheed said the team’s performance has brought unity and renewed hope in a country that has seen its fair share of hockey setbacks in recent years.
“We have been through a lot as a team, and it has affected our performances over the years. Because of that, many people in our country lost interest in hockey,” he said.
“We’ve worked hard to revive interest in the sport through our performances over the past two years, and I can see a very positive impact on society. It’s great to see more people becoming invested in the game and kids starting to pick up the sport again.
“Our team is younger now and stronger than before. I’m confident we can continue to progress and achieve more success in the coming years, making the nation proud and bringing back the glory days of Pakistan hockey.
“We will give everything we have to win the Nations Cup and return home with this prestigious trophy for our fans.”
At the same time, Rana Waheed also stressed the importance of Pakistan competing in the next edition of the FIH Pro League, saying it would offer invaluable exposure and experience for the young squad.
“Winning the Nations Cup would grant us a place in the Pro League, and that’s currently our main goal in the dressing room,” he said.
“The Pro League is one of the best platforms for us to play against top international teams. It will also serve as crucial preparation for upcoming World Cups and Olympic Games.
“We sincerely hope that our government will support us in this endeavour and align with our ambition to play in the Pro League.”
In yesterday’s tense semi-final clash, France took a 2–0 lead through goals from Xavier Esmenjaud and Victor Charlet. However, Pakistan mounted a strong comeback in the third quarter with goals from Afraz, Sufyan Khan, and Muhammad Hammadudin to take a 3–2 lead.
Charlet later levelled the score with a penalty corner conversion, sending the match into a shootout.
In the shootout, Afraz, Shahid Hannan, and Rana Waheed scored for Pakistan, while goalkeeper Hammadudin made a crucial save to secure a 3–2 win and a place in the final. — June 21, 2025
The post ‘We’ve come a long way’ — Rana Waheed proud of Pakistan’s hockey resurgence appeared first on Scoop.
