The Pakistan Hockey Federation has announced the official trial schedule for both Under-18 and senior national hockey teams. The selection process is part of preparations for major international events.
The PHF said the trials will help finalize squads for upcoming tournaments, including the U-18 Asia Cup and the FIH Pro League. Officials confirmed that selections will be made on merit.
According to the federation, the decision was taken after consultations between key committees. These include the Professional Development Committee, National Selection Committee, and team head coaches. The plan was later approved by the PHF President.
Training camps for both teams are already underway. The PHF has set up the U-18 training camp at Nasir Bunda Hockey Stadium in Islamabad. Meanwhile, the senior team is training at the National Hockey Stadium in Lahore.
The U-18 trials will be held on May 9 and May 10 in Islamabad. The National Selection Committee and junior team coach will supervise the process. The aim is to finalize the squad for the U-18 Asia Cup.
For the senior team, the first phase of trials is scheduled for May 12 and May 13 in Lahore. The PHF confirmed that senior selectors and the head coach will oversee this phase.
Officials said around 60 players currently in the senior training camp will be evaluated. The best performers will be shortlisted for the next stage.
The PHF explained that the senior team selection will take place in two phases. After the first phase, a second round of trials will be conducted. The final schedule for the second phase will be announced later.
The second phase will finalize the squad for the FIH Pro League. Officials said this system ensures fair evaluation and better performance selection.
A PHF spokesperson said the federation is closely monitoring both camps. The PHF President is also personally overseeing the entire process.
Officials added that the goal is to select the strongest possible teams. The focus remains on improving Pakistan’s performance in international hockey.
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The federation stressed that merit-based selection is the top priority. The PHF believes this structured process will help strengthen national hockey in the coming competitions.
