- As the final stages of the current FIH Hockey Pro League season approach (starting from 13 June), let us hear from the participating teams. Today, Pakistan's Captain Ammad Shakeel Butt shares his thoughts.
"VAN" (Sports Desk - 06.05.2026) :: As the FIH Hockey Pro League resumes in June, what key improvements do you think Pakistan still needs to make to compete effectively at this level?
Keeping in mind this was our first participation in the FIH Hockey Pro League, it has already been a positive step for Pakistan hockey. It has helped us understand the level required to compete with the best teams. The core aim is to improve our ball possession in the midfield and be more composed under high press. The accuracy in finishing inside the circle and penalty corner conversion must be above 40%. On the defensive side, we must avoid small mistakes, especially on counter-attacks, because top teams do punish every error. Our major area of concern is Goalkeeping, where we do get easily exposed at key moments and it does cost us. At the same time, we are working on it with full focus and belief. If we tighten these areas, we are confident we will be far more competitive in the next phase, Inshallah.
How important is this Pro League phase in June for Pakistan to build momentum ahead of major tournaments like the World Cup and Asian Games?
This phase is extremely important for us, it is our best preparation platform. Every match in the Pro League comes with very high intensity. Playing back-to-back against world-class teams will surely build our momentum before major tournaments, as it will not only help us physically but also make us mentally stronger to handle pressure with more ease. If we manage to compete strongly and pick up positive results in the June phase, that confidence will surely give us a boost and carry forward into the World cup and Asian Games.
The Pro League will see Pakistan face top teams, including high-intensity matches against rivals like India—how is the team preparing for these big encounters?
We are preparing in a structured and disciplined way. In the Pro League, every match is a tough challenge, so our approach stays the same against every team. For us, India is just another opponent team on the match day. The rivalry does add extra excitement and spice things up, but our focus remains on our own game. We are ready, we are focusing on playing disciplined hockey, staying united as a team, and backing our strengths with confidence in every match.
With the Pro League returning in June, how crucial will the support of Pakistan’s passionate hockey fans be in motivating the team?
Our fans are like extra invisible players for us on the field. Their passion and support push us to go beyond our limits. Sometimes, when we feel like giving up, a thought comes to us that we might be living someone else’s dream, so we give that extra effort for everyone who believes in us. The feeling when we know the whole nation is watching us, praying for us, and standing behind us gives us extra strength to conquer.. The fans’ support truly means a lot to us. We will be keep giving our best to make them proud.
As captain, what message would you like to give to the fans ahead of the Pro League matches in June regarding the team's ambitions and direction?
As captain of the Pakistan hockey team, I request every hockey fan to stay with us and keep their trust in us. We know the road has been long and difficult, but this team is here in the FIH Hockey Pro League. I promise you, on behalf of myself and the team, that we will never stop fighting. We will fight for every ball to raise the Pakistan flag on the hockey field again. Continue to support us with the same passion. Better days are coming. Pakistan hockey will rise again. Inshallah.
Cr-FIH
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