Pakistan suffer double injury setback ahead of Pro Hockey League

LAHORE: The Pakistan national hockey team have been hit by a double injury setback ahead of their preparations for the upcoming Pro Hockey League, with two senior players ruled out during the training camp.

Sources confirmed that issues linked to the Astroturf at the National Hockey Stadium in Lahore have contributed to player injuries, raising fresh concerns over training conditions. 

According to officials, the surface was also a point of concern raised by players at the start of the final national camp.

During the camp, captain Imad Butt and senior player Sufyan Khan reportedly described the turf as slow, while several squad members highlighted difficulties in adapting to the playing surface. 

Players further noted that the Astroturf had not been extensively used, which affected ball speed and overall game intensity.

The situation escalated when two senior players, Sufyan Khan and Hannan Shahid, sustained injuries during training sessions and have now been ruled out of the Pro Hockey League. 

Abdul Manan and Basharat Ali have been named as replacements, as both were already included among the shortlisted players, according to team sources.

Concerns have also been raised within the camp regarding the physical strain placed on players due to the surface, with fears that excessive pressure on joints and muscles has increased the risk of injury.

Sources added that no formal rehabilitation or medical management plan had been finalised for the injured players at the time of reporting.

Despite the setbacks, Pakistan continue their preparations for upcoming international commitments, with team management expected to reassess training conditions in the coming days.

It is pertinent to mention that the Green Shirts are set to play their match of the FIH Pro League against Belgium on June 13, while their next fixture is scheduled against Spain the following day.