Pakistan’s hockey squad has greatly enhanced national pride: COAS Gen Munir

Pakistan's hockey squad has greatly enhanced national pride: COAS Gen Munir

Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir praised the national hockey team on Friday, saying they brought great pride to the country with their exceptional performance in the Sultan Azlan Shah tournament.

The comments were delivered by the army commander during a meeting with the Pakistan hockey team at the General Headquarters in Rawalpindi today, according to a statement released by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

“The COAS congratulated the team for their excellent performance during the interaction, saying that the hockey team has greatly elevated national pride and that we are dedicated to offering them full support to ensure their success going forward.”

Additionally, Gen. Munir wished the athletes well in their upcoming endeavors.

The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) President Tariq Hussain and other PHF officials were also present during the meeting, according to the ISPR.

The army chief was thanked by the PHF chief for giving him the chance to meet and talk with the squad.

It is important to note that Pakistan has, for the first time in thirteen years, advanced to the Azlan Shah Cup 2024 final. The match concluded 2-2 in normal time, but the national team lost to Japan 4-1 in a penalty shootout. The squad’s exceptional performance throughout the competition won them the hearts.

Following their runners-up finish in the recently concluded big event, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif earlier declared a substantial prize of Rs. 1 million for each member of the Pakistan hockey team.

The players‘ outstanding performance at the hockey competition has resulted in the announcement of prize money.