At a time when Pakistan’s national hockey team faces serious financial challenges, two respected businessmen have stepped forward to offer more than just aid — they’re reigniting hope for a sport long eclipsed by cricket.
Anwar Khawaja of AK Industries and Khawaja Masood Akhtar of Forward Sports (globally known as a FIFA football supplier) have launched a direct sponsorship initiative for nine national hockey players.
The players are divided into two tiers:
- Category A:
Hannan Shahid, Sufyan Khan, and Ammad Butt will receive full financial stipends along with top-quality equipment. - Category B:
Salman Razzak, Rana Waleed, Abdul Rehman (Senior), Abuzar, Ali Raza, and Faizan Janjua will receive monthly financial support and essential gear.
For years, national hockey players have struggled — often funding their own training and travel, despite representing Pakistan on global platforms. This support marks a shift: not just in resources, but in recognition.
Where cricket dominates headlines and funding, hockey — once Pakistan’s pride — has been left in the shadows. This initiative is a statement: that sports beyond cricket matter, and that corporate Pakistan can play a vital role in their revival.
This isn’t a PR campaign. It’s a genuine investment in talent, tradition, and the future of a sport that gave Pakistan global glory. As the hockey team shows promise once again, such backing could provide the boost needed to reclaim their legacy.
Above all, it sets a hopeful precedent — that when the private sector believes in a cause, real change is possible.
