The Future of Sports in Pakistan: New Policy, Challenges, and Key Competitions
The sports sector in Pakistan is currently facing mixed circumstances. On one hand, the government is attempting to improve the system through the new 'National Sports Policy 2026,' while on the other hand, several sports are facing financial difficulties and mismanagement. Experts say that due to the lack of attention to sports other than cricket, Pakistan's sports system is in decline, requiring immediate measures for its survival.
Important news from the cricket field is that the Pakistani team will depart from Islamabad on July 13 for a tour of the West Indies, where they will play a two-Test match series. Additionally, the Indian government has allowed Pakistani athletes to visit India to participate in multi-national competitions; however, the ban on bilateral cricket matches remains in place. On the other hand, some concerns still exist regarding the cricket series with Afghanistan.
The objective of the government's new sports policy is to grant more autonomy to sports federations and introduce a new funding model. The Pakistan Olympic Association has proposed awarding grants based on performance, following the model used in Qatar. However, financial issues persist, a major example being the instruction to table tennis players to bear all expenses themselves for traveling to Japan for the Asian Games.
To promote sports among the youth, a summer sports camp has been launched at the Pakistan Sports Complex in Islamabad. This initiative aims to improve physical health, discipline, and sporting skills among students. Efforts to enhance Pakistan's reputation at the international level are also underway, such as the Pakistani Embassy in Argentina celebrating the relationship between the two countries through an exhibition of footballs and sports equipment made in Pakistan.
For the revival of the national sport, hockey, in Pakistan, experts believe that only honest analysis and long-term reforms can be effective. If the new sports policy is implemented in its true spirit and players are provided with a professional structure and investment, Pakistan can once again succeed in regaining its lost position in the world of sports.