Australia’s High Commissioner Neill Hawkins Seeks Revival of Pakistan’s Golden Era in Hockey

Karachi: Australian High Commissioner Neill Hawkins has expressed a desire to see the return of Pakistan’s glorious past in hockey. He acknowledged Pakistan’s remarkable achievements in the sport, stating that the country had won every global title in hockey and defeated every top team. Speaking to the media during his visit to the Olympian Islahuddin and Dr. Muhammad Ali Shah Hockey Academy, Hawkins said, “I want to see Pakistan return to its golden days in hockey.”
Hawkins described the Islahuddin and Dr. Muhammad Ali Shah Hockey Academy as “state-of-the-art,” highlighting the world-class facilities available to the players. He praised Olympian Islahuddin, noting that under his leadership, Pakistan achieved numerous successes on the field, and after his retirement, Islahuddin has continued to contribute by providing free training to players at his academy.
Hawkins also compared the infrastructure of hockey in Australia with that of Pakistan, acknowledging that while Australia boasts numerous hockey academies and superior sports infrastructure, Pakistan is currently facing challenges in the sport. He emphasized the importance of both provincial and national government support to help Pakistan regain its hockey success.
Olympian Islahuddin, in his remarks, appreciated Hawkins’ visit and his enthusiasm for promoting hockey in Pakistan. He agreed that both Pakistan and Australia have achieved great things in the world of hockey and cricket, and he welcomed the Australian High Commissioner’s desire to help revive Pakistan’s hockey fortunes.