A 24-member South Korean National Hockey Team arrived in Islamabad for a four-match FIH-approved international test series against Pakistan, marking the first bilateral hockey tour of the country in nearly 20 years, it was reported on Tuesday.
The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) said the four matches will be played in Naseer Bunda Stadium in Islamabad on July 30, August 2, August 4 and August 7.
PHF President Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani and other high-ranking officials of the inter-provincial coordination welcomed the Korean team, calling the tour a landmark moment for the revival of international hockey in Pakistan.
“This is a proud and memorable occasion for Pakistan hockey. After almost two decades, we are once again welcoming an international team to our home grounds,” Wani said. “We extend a warm welcome to the Korean National Hockey Team and are confident that this series will strengthen the longstanding friendship between our two countries while promoting high-quality international hockey.
The PHF said the series would provide valuable international exposure to both sides and contribute to Pakistan’s preparations for upcoming major competitions. It described the tour as reflecting growing confidence within the international hockey community in Pakistan’s ability to host world-class events in a safe and professional environment.
The federation expressed gratitude to the Government of Pakistan, security agencies and other stakeholders for their support in making the tour possible.
The PHF invited hockey fans across the country to attend the matches in large numbers and support the national team as Pakistan takes another step toward restoring its standing on the international hockey map.
