Shaheen, Haris to make entry in hockey

Lahore Qalandars will revive hockey in Pakistan

January 21, 2023

Pakistan's prolific pacers Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf will play their role in reviving the national sport hockey. 

Lahore Qalandars will collaborate with Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) to revive the national game in the country. Initially, Qalandars will make Karachi and Lahore teams to start their long-term plan for the betterment of hockey. 

While talking about this project, Qalandars' owner Atif Rana said it will take just two-three years to get hockey on the right track. 

"We will follow our cricket development process and revive hockey in the country," shared Atif. 

"See, right now hockey is an emotional appeal. We need to make it financially strong as we did in cricket. It will take two to three years to make it financially appealing," added Qalandars' owner. 

Qalandars aim to involve its brand and star cricketers in the promotion of hockey. Hence, they have initially involved their star pacers Shaheen and Haris in it.

"Hockey doesn't have stars right now. We need to create stars but for that, we have to attract eyeballs," said Qalandars. 

"Shaheen will be the ambassador of the Karachi team and Haris will be of Lahore. When they both come on board, it will help us bring attraction on the screen," he highlighted. 

Like the class of 2022 in cricket, Qalandars will shortlist players and support them in every aspect to make them world-class. 

"We will hold matches in Lahore and Karachi. 20-22 players will be shortlisted and given sponsorship. If this model works, we will go to other cities and create city rivalry to give hype to hockey," he concluded. 

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