The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has confirmed that the national team will take part in the Women’s Junior Asia Cup 2026, which is set to take place in China. This decision marks a significant step in the federation's ongoing efforts to revitalize women's hockey in the country, a sport that has seen fluctuating levels of support and success over the years.
To prepare for this important continental tournament, the PHF will conduct a national training and selection camp in Islamabad starting August 18. This camp will invite players from the top four teams of the recently concluded National Girls Under-18/Under-21 Championship, ensuring that the most talented young athletes are considered for the national squad. Additionally, the federation is keen to scout talent from regions such as Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir through trials, broadening the scope for potential players.
PHF President Mohyuddin Ahmed Wani emphasized the importance of a transparent and merit-based selection process. He stated that players will be evaluated not only on their performance but also on their technical skills, fitness levels, tactical understanding, and overall discipline. Wani expressed confidence in the capabilities of Pakistani players, noting, “Our players possess tremendous talent, passion, and ability. We want to provide them with opportunities to compete internationally and become the stars of Pakistan hockey’s bright future.”
The training camp is designed not just to prepare for the Junior Asia Cup but also to cultivate a larger pool of young players who can contribute to the future of women’s hockey in Pakistan. The PHF plans to implement a comprehensive training program that includes fitness training, modern coaching techniques, tactical preparation, video analysis, and other international-standard practices.
This initiative follows the successful organization of the National Women’s Hockey Championship and various junior-level competitions, signaling a renewed commitment from the PHF to rebuild the women’s game. Wani stated, “Our objective is not merely to participate in the event in China. We want to establish a sustainable system for girls’ hockey, from schools and grassroots programs to the junior and senior levels.”
As part of its grassroots initiative, the PHF has registered 706 schools across the country to promote girls' hockey, demonstrating a proactive approach to expanding the sport at the foundational level. The federation aims to collaborate with provincial associations, coaches, and other stakeholders to identify and nurture young talent, providing them with opportunities to compete at higher levels.
Pakistan’s participation in the Women’s Junior Asia Cup is seen as a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to revitalize women’s hockey and develop a new generation of players. With a focus on sustainable growth and international competition, the PHF hopes to inspire a resurgence in the sport and foster the next wave of female hockey stars in the country.
Leave a Comment