Pakistan has officially announced its 20-member squad for the 2026 FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup. The tournament will take place in the Netherlands and Belgium from August 15 to August 30. The national team will aim to make a strong impression as it returns to one of hockey’s biggest international events.
The selected squad includes a blend of experienced players and young talent. The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) believes this combination will help the team compete against the world’s best sides. The management hopes the squad can deliver improved performances on the global stage.
Waqar and Ali Raza have been named as the team’s two goalkeepers. The remaining squad includes Muhammad Abdullah, Muhammad Sufyan Khan, Moin Shakeel, Abdul Waheed Ashraf Rana, Abdul Hannan Shahid, Zikriya Hayat, Arshad Liaqat, Adeel Latif, Ahmad Nadeem, Ghazanfar Ali, Ammad Shakeel Butt, Muhammad Hammaduddin Anjum, Rehman Abdul, Afraz, Umar Mustafa, Abu Bakar Mahmood, Abdul Manan, and Muhammad Ammad.
The coaching staff will be led by Dutch coach Bob Johan Veldhof as head coach. He will be assisted by Christopher John Bowen of Great Britain and Adnan Zakir. The federation expects the experienced coaching team to prepare the players for the tough competition ahead.
Muhammad Awais Qarni has been appointed as the team manager. Ashraf Sultan will serve as the video technician during the tournament. The support staff will work closely with the players throughout the World Cup campaign.
PHF President Mohyuddin Ahmed Wani expressed confidence in both the players and the coaching staff. He encouraged fans across Pakistan to support the national hockey team as it prepares for the prestigious tournament. He also expressed hope that the squad would represent the country with determination and pride.
Pakistan earned its place in the World Cup after returning to the top level of international hockey. However, the team enters the competition after a difficult run of results. The national side lost all 16 matches during its recent FIH Pro League campaign and finished at the bottom of the standings.
The disappointing performances have raised questions about the team’s form before the World Cup. They have also increased attention on the administration and development of hockey in Pakistan. Despite these challenges, the players and coaching staff remain focused on improving their performances.
The 2026 FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup will feature many of the strongest teams in international hockey. Pakistan will face a tough challenge as it looks to progress beyond the early stages of the tournament. The squad will aim to use this opportunity to restore confidence and improve the country’s standing in world hockey.
Supporters will be hoping the new squad can produce positive results and mark a successful return for Pakistan on the sport’s biggest stage.
