Islamabad (TDI): Oman’s national hockey team is set to visit Pakistan from April 6 to 14, 2025 for a series of four friendly matches with Pakistan’s national junior team.
Two matches are scheduled for Lahore and the other two will be played in Islamabad. The announcement was made by Tariq Hussain Bugti, President of the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF), during a press conference.
The press conference was called to honor Pakistan’s hockey captain, Ammad Shakeel Butt, for receiving Tamgha-e-Imtiaz, one of Pakistan’s highest civil awards, on Pakistan Day.
Bugti expressed his gratitude to the Oman Hockey Federation for facilitating the tour, emphasizing its importance in strengthening hockey’s international reputation and providing valuable exposure to young Pakistani players.
Oman’s national hockey team to tour Pakistan@ForeignOfficePk@NaveedSafdar14https://t.co/Eg7HW1LDb3
— Pakistan Embassy Oman (@PakinOman) April 4, 2025
Ammad Shakeel Butt was also present during the press conference where he highlighted the importance of this upcoming international series for professional development of Pakistani junior players of the sport, and the promotion of hockey in the country.
He expressed optimism that these matches would significantly improve the skills and experience of the junior team, contributing to the overall growth of the sport in the country.
In response to financial challenges and to improve the operations of the federation, Bugti has announced the creation of a dedicated marketing department within the PHF.
This initiative is designed to attract sponsorships and enhance financial stability, which will facilitate the successful execution of upcoming events and development programs.
Read More: Pakistan hockey team set to compete in FIH Olympic in Oman
Pakistan’s participation in international tournaments is being organized by the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF). Secretary Rana Mujahid mentioned that they have plans for both senior and junior teams.
He also shared that the PHF is in talks with three countries to hold international matches in Pakistan. The goal is to arrange at least twenty five international games for the senior team, both in Pakistan and abroad, Mujahid told the press.
H also mentioned that decisions concerning participation in events held in India, such as the Asia Cup and Junior World Cup, will be made in consultation with the federal government.
The training camp for the national junior team is set to start in Lahore from today, to prepare for the upcoming series against Oman.
Areeba Kanwal is a contributor at The Diplomatic Insight and has passion for International Relations and diplomacy.
