Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has announced a substantial reward of £1 million for each member of the Pakistan hockey team, who have returned to their homeland on Sunday, having secured second place in the highly anticipated Sultan Azlan Shah Cup 2024.
The announcement of this prize money is intended as a gesture of recognition for the exceptional performance of the players in this prestigious hockey tournament. Despite the loss to Japan in a penalty shootout, following a 2-2 draw in regular time, the Pakistan hockey team exhibited outstanding skill and sportsmanship throughout the entirety of the competition.
The team were welcomed as heroes at Lahore Airport, where they were received by Rana Mashood, Chairman of the Prime Minister Youth Program, former captain Chaudhry Akhtar Rasool, Muhammad Saqlain, Anjum Saeed, and other esteemed former players.
The final match was a thrilling display of talent from both teams. After Japan claimed the lead in the shootout, Pakistan made an impressive comeback, scoring two goals in the third quarter to level the playing field. However, despite their valiant efforts, Japan emerged victorious in the penalty shootout.
This remarkable achievement represents a significant milestone for Pakistan hockey, as the team qualified for the final match for the first time in 13 years. The Sultan Azlan Shah Cup 2024 culminated in an exhilarating contest, with Japan and Pakistan emerging as the top two teams on the points table, having remained unbeaten throughout the round-robin matches.
Japan secured the top position with 13 points, having won four matches and drawn one, while Pakistan claimed the second position with 11 points. The exceptional performance of the Pakistan hockey team has undoubtedly earned them widespread recognition and admiration within the global sporting community.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s generous reward stands as a demonstration of the government’s steadfast support for the development and promotion of sports in Pakistan. This substantial prize money not only recognises the players’ hard work and dedication, but also acts as an incentive for them to strive for excellence in future competitions.
The stellar performance of the Pakistan hockey team at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup 2024 has made a lasting impact on the national sporting landscape, sparking a new wave of enthusiasm and passion for hockey across the country. As the players embark on their next chapter, they carry with them the pride and admiration of a nation that celebrates their achievements with the utmost respect and admiration.