In Pakistan, two sports have ruled the hearts of millions: hockey and cricket. Hockey is our national sport, a game that once brought us Olympic gold and World Cup glory. Cricket, on the other hand, is the undisputed king of popularity today, attracting massive crowds, money, and media attention.

Both sports once walked side by side in the national spotlight, representing skill, passion, and pride.

But over the years, one rose higher while the other struggled to survive.

But how did this shift happen? Why did hockey decline, even though it once brought Pakistan pride, while cricket rose to dominate the sports scene?

Let’s explore this story of two great sports and how their paths took very different turns in Pakistan.

The Golden Era of Hockey

· A National Symbol of Success

From the 1950s to the 1980s, Pakistan’s hockey team was one of the best in the world. The team regularly won Olympic medals, including gold in 1960, 1968, and 1984. Pakistan also won the Hockey World Cup a record four times (1971, 1978, 1982, 1994).

Players like Shahbaz Ahmed, Samiullah, and Manzoor Jr. became household names. The green shirts dominated with skill, speed, and teamwork. Victories in hockey brought the nation together and gave people something to celebrate.

· International Respect

Pakistan’s hockey team was feared and respected across the globe. Matches between Pakistan and India were considered classics, drawing thousands of fans.

The sport became a symbol of national pride, and the government and people treated the hockey team like heroes.

The Rise of Cricket

· A Gentleman's Game That Grew Big

Cricket was also played during the early years of Pakistan, but it started gaining serious popularity in the 1970s and 80s. The turning point came in 1992, when Pakistan won the Cricket World Cup under the leadership of Imran Khan.

That victory made cricket a national obsession. New heroes emerged—Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, Inzamam-ul-Haq, and later Shahid Afridi, Misbah, Babar Azam, and more.

TV, radio, and newspapers gave more attention to cricket. The crowd followed every match like a festival.

Why Hockey Declined

Now, let’s look at some main reasons why hockey, despite its success, slowly fell from its high place:

1. Lack of Media Coverage

· Over time, TV channels and newspapers started focusing more on cricket.

· Hockey matches were not shown live, and fans lost connection with the game.

· When people don’t see a sport, they forget about it.

Meanwhile, cricket was on every screen, making stars out of players overnight.

2. Poor Management

· The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) failed to plan for the future.

· There was no strong domestic structure or youth development.

· Corruption and internal politics hurt the game even more.

In contrast, cricket’s board (PCB) improved its systems, hired international coaches, and launched youth programs.

3. No Investment

· Hockey grounds were ignored, and facilities were not updated.

· Astro-turf (artificial surface used in international matches) was not available in most areas.

· Players did not get good salaries, so many left the sport.

On the other hand, cricket attracted big sponsors, and even domestic players started earning well.

4. Change in Playing Conditions

· International hockey shifted from grass to astro turf in the 1970s.

· Pakistan failed to adapt to the new playing style.

· European teams, with better fitness and strategies, took over.

Pakistan’s traditional hockey skills were less effective on astro-turf, leading to losses.

5. No School/College Hockey

· Earlier, schools and colleges were a strong part of hockey culture.

· With time, those systems disappeared.

· Today, few children even know how to hold a hockey stick.

In contrast, cricket became part of every school and neighborhood in Pakistan.

Why Cricket Rose

Now let’s understand the key reasons behind cricket’s rise in Pakistan:

1. 1992 World Cup Victory

· This was a turning point.

· It gave cricket the boost it needed to become a national passion.

· The image of Imran Khan holding the trophy is still fresh in every Pakistani’s memory.

2. Massive Media Coverage

· Every cricket match is shown live with expert analysis.

· Players are interviewed, celebrated, and even worshipped.

· TV channels run full-day cricket discussions during tournaments.

This nonstop coverage makes fans feel emotionally connected to the team.

3. Leagues Like PSL

· The Pakistan Super League (PSL) brought local and international stars together.

· It gave young talent a platform and brought excitement back.

· Big stadiums, music, lights, and international broadcasting turned it into a festival.

There is no such professional league for hockey in Pakistan.

4. Easy Access for Everyone

· A bat and ball are cheaper and easier to find than a hockey stick and astro-turf.

· Kids can play cricket in the street, parks, rooftops—anywhere!

· Every neighborhood has a few cricket lovers and casual teams.

Hockey, however, needs proper gear, coaching, and space, which are not available easily.

5. Hero Culture

· Cricket produces superstars like Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, and Mohammad Rizwan.

· They get TV ads, brand deals, social media followers, and worldwide fame.

· Fans follow their fashion, style, and lifestyle.

Hockey players rarely get this kind of attention now.

Role of Government and Institutions

Cricket has received better support from both the government and the private sector. Stadiums were built or upgraded, and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) received funding and sponsorships.

Meanwhile, hockey was neglected. The PHF could not attract sponsorships, and the government rarely gave serious funding. As a result, facilities stayed outdated, and players struggled financially.

Even in the armed forces and educational institutions, cricket got more focus than hockey. Once key supporters of hockey, these institutions slowly shifted their priorities.

Impact on Youth

Today, if you ask a child what sport they want to play, most will say “cricket.”

Why?

Because:

· They see cricket on TV.

· They know the players' names.

· Their school promotes it.

· Their friends play it.

· There’s hope for a career.

Hockey does not offer the same exposure or opportunities. Without youth interest, no sport can survive.

Can Hockey Make a Comeback?

Yes, but it will take serious effort and planning.

What Needs to Be Done:

1. Invest in Astro-turf Grounds

Build quality hockey fields in every major city.

Allow free or low-cost access to youth.

Astro-turf is essential for international-level training and experience.

Without modern grounds, players can’t practice the real game style.

2. Launch a Hockey Super League

Like PSL, create a media-friendly league with local and foreign players.

Bring sponsors and TV partners on board.

A professional league would bring excitement and create new stars.

It will also generate jobs and revive interest among the younger generation.

3. School and College Programs

Reintroduce hockey in schools with proper coaching.

Host regular inter-school and inter-college tournaments.

Early exposure builds skills and discipline from a young age.

Education institutions must be a key part of the talent pipeline.

4. Marketing and Media Support

Show hockey matches live.

Share player stories, match highlights, and training videos on social media.

Make hockey visible again—visibility builds curiosity and fandom.

Use platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram to attract youth.

5. Financial Security for Players

Offer salaries, scholarships, and job opportunities.

Let players focus on their game, not survival.

If hockey becomes a stable career, more youth will choose it.

Financial stress drives talent away from the sport.

6. Hire International Coaches

Bring in experts to train players on modern skills, tactics, and fitness.

Learning from the best can help close the gap with top teams like Australia and Netherlands.

Focus on both individual technique and team strategy.

A Balanced Future for Both Sports

There’s no rule that says a country can only love one sport. India, for example, enjoys success in both cricket and hockey. Even Australia, England, and Netherlands balance multiple sports well, supporting athletes across cricket, hockey, football, and more.

Pakistan can do the same. With smart planning, genuine support, and consistent investment, both hockey and cricket can shine brightly on the world stage. One can bring back Olympic medals, while the other can chase ICC trophies. Both have the power to unite the nation, inspire youth, and make every Pakistani proud.

It’s not about competition—it’s about celebrating our rich sports heritage and giving the youth more opportunities to dream and succeed. A sporting nation doesn’t rely on one game—it thrives when all its talents are supported and all its passions are nurtured.

Conclusion: A Story of Two Sports

The story of hockey vs cricket in Pakistan is one of changing times, choices, and attention. Hockey, once a giant, was left behind. Cricket, with its glamour and reach, took the spotlight.

But this doesn’t mean hockey is dead. Its soul still lives in history, in the hearts of older fans, and in the memories of golden victories. What it needs is revival—not just with words, but with actions.

Let’s not forget that cricket gave us heroes, but hockey gave us history.

It’s time to honor both—the pride of our past and the passion of our present.

The dream is to see a day when both sports rise, side by side, making Pakistan proud once again.

Shahbaz Ahmad

When We Ruled the Field: The Golden Era of Pakistan Hockey

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