LAHORE – Despite reaching the final of the Nations Hockey Cup after an 11-year gap, the Pakistan national hockey team returned home without any official or government representative to welcome them at the airport.
The team arrived in Pakistan from Malaysia on June 22 but neither government officials nor Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) representatives were present at the airport to receive them.
Instead, the players were warmly greeted by their families and loyal fans who showed up to show their support.
Team captain Imad Butt later took to social media, posting a group photo of the squad and sharing an emotional message. “We have not lost — we have won hearts. We have revived hockey,” he wrote.
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Reflecting on the team’s journey to the final, Imad added, “Reaching the final after 11 long years is not just a milestone — it’s a message: Pakistan is rising again. This silver medal is not a defeat, it is a symbol of hope and belief.”
Acknowledging the team’s missed opportunity in the final, he wrote, “Yes, the trophy may have slipped from our hands today, but the fire within us is burning brighter than ever. The day is not far when we’ll bring the trophy home,”.
Imad added, “This is the beginning of a new chapter for Pakistan hockey. Thank you for your love, unity, and passion. The nation’s prayers and support have pushed us forward. We will fight until the last breath. The journey continues, and the dream lives on. Pakistan Zindabad,”.
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