RIP HOCKY SQUASH & NOW CRICKET ?
By Dr Ashraf Chohan
Chief Editor Daily Rapid
Pakistan’s decline in dominance in sports like squash, hockey, and now cricket can be attributed to several factors, and addressing these issues will require a multi-faceted approach. Here’s a breakdown of the reasons and potential remedies:
Pakistan once produced legendary squash players like Jahangir Khan and Jansher Khan, but the infrastructure for nurturing talent has deteriorated. Squash courts are limited, and facilities are often outdated.
Similar issues exist in hockey, where the country’s infrastructure hasn’t kept pace with global standards. AstroTurf fields are necessary, yet there are not enough of them, and the existing ones are often in poor condition.
Now the Cricket, while still the most popular sport, has suffered from inconsistent performance in domestic and international cricket for some time now. Lack of effective leadership, Infrastructure and inadequate training are affecting player development.
Pakistan has failed to build a robust pipeline for young talent. There’s a lack of organized programs at the school and college levels to identify and nurture potential.
The under-19 and domestic systems have sometimes been neglected, leading to a talent gap at the senior level.
Mismanagement and internal politics within the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) and Squash had been significant hindrances. This has led to inconsistencies in coaching, team selection, and player motivation. Same issues are now affecting cricket.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has had issues with political interference, inconsistent policies, and frequent changes in leadership, impacting team stability.
The international game has evolved with innovations in fitness, technology, and strategies. Most of the cricket playing nations have adopted to new environments. Pakistan’s adherence to older methods and lack of innovation has caused them to lag behind. Players individually are less groomed less athletic lack confidence at international platforms and appear shaky at bigger matches. There are some great past players in the management but they are also divided and act unprofessionally.
The reality is that security issues have also prevented international teams from touring Pakistan for many years. This lack of home games has deprived the team of much-needed exposure and experience on home soil.
Economic challenges have limited funding for sports development. Additionally, societal changes have led to a decrease in participation in traditional sports with youth often gravitating to non-sporting pursuits.
For Squash and Hockey Pakistan need to Build and maintain modern facilities, including squash courts and AstroTurf fields, across the country. This would require both government and private sector investment.
For cricket of course it’s essential to Strengthen domestic cricket infrastructure, including pitches, stadiums, and training facilities, to nurture talent from the grassroots.
Governance remains the killing factor for cricket. English and Indian management are examples how a structured system of professional cricketers are involved at every level with dedication and honesty. Extremely Independant selection process and seriousness to the game is evident at every level.
Reform sports federations to ensure merit-based management, transparency, and accountability.
Reducing political interference and appointing professionals with a clear vision could significantly improve governance.
After devastating results of the World Cup and now shameful defeat by Bangladesh right in the Pakistani capital will need a long time to recover from it needing Investing in fitness, technology, and tactical coaching to align with international standards. Host international matches in Pakistan to regain home advantage and inspire the next generation of cricketers. Encourage corporate sponsorships and partnerships to fund sports programs, infrastructure, and events. Public-private partnerships could play a crucial role in reviving sports like squash and hockey. In PSL maximum participation of the top world cricketers must be ensured.
