PM Shehbaz Sharif commends Hockey team’s silver medal win, announces athlete support policy

English , Snippets , Sports - کھیل اور کھلاڑی , / Friday, May 17th, 2024

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has lauded the national hockey team for their silver medal at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup and initiated a policy to secure financial stability for athletes by employing them through various departments. This announcement came during a ceremony at the PM House to celebrate the team’s achievement in Ipoh, Malaysia.

Led by Ammad Shakeel Butt, the team reached the Azlan Shah Cup final for the first time in 13 years, ultimately losing to Japan in a shootout. The Prime Minister highlighted the importance of supporting athletes financially to allow them to concentrate on their sports.

He appointed Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme, to oversee the implementation of this policy within a week. Each hockey team member received a Rs1 million cheque from the Prime Minister in recognition of their performance.

PM Sharif emphasized the government’s commitment to reviving hockey and other sports in Pakistan, expressing optimism for future victories. He also acknowledged the efforts of the Pakistan Hockey Federation and promised further discussions to enhance the sport’s development.

In addition to the hockey team, javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem, rifle shooter Kashmala Talat and her team, and equestrian Usman Khan were also rewarded for their accomplishments and upcoming participation in the Paris Olympics. Usman Khan received £25,000 for his equestrian event.