Newly-appointed national hockey team head coach Olympian Khawaja Muhammad Junaid has expressed optimism that the green shirts can capitalize on a “golden opportunity” to qualify for the Hockey World Cup.
Talking exclusively to APP, Junaid said his foremost priority would be to help Pakistan team emerge victorious in the FIH Hockey World Cup Qualifiers, scheduled to be held in Egypt from March 1 to 7. The national team will depart for the event on Tuesday.
“My utmost effort will be to ensure that Pakistan puts up an impressive performance in the World Cup Qualifiers and secures a place in the mega event.
“After a long gap, this is a golden opportunity for Pakistan to qualify for the World Cup,” he said.
He said Pakistan would face tough competition in Egypt, where they are set to take on Malaysia, Austria and China in the group stage. “We will not take the challenge lightly. Malaysia, Austria and China are good sides, and we will have to deliver our best,” he added.
The coach noted that the World Cup would be played in the second week of August in the Netherlands and Belgium, and emphasized that the team was determined to earn its berth through consistent performances.
Referring to Pakistan’s recent participation in the FIH Pro League, Junaid said that although the team could not secure victories in eight matches, the exposure against top-ranked teams proved beneficial. “Competing against the world’s best teams gave our players valuable learning experience. They now understand their shortcomings better,” he said.
“During my discussions with the players, we talked in detail about the areas that require improvement. It is essential to address these weaknesses before stepping into the qualifiers,” he added.
He stressed that unity and commitment would be key. “If the players perform to their full potential and play as a cohesive unit, I am confident we can achieve the desired results,” he remarked.
Recalling Pakistan’s glorious past, Junaid said the country had a rich legacy in international hockey, winning multiple Olympic and World Cup titles. “Pakistan hockey has a proud history. It is our collective responsibility to revive that winning culture and restore the nation’s rightful place in world hockey,” he said.
He also appreciated the efforts of Secretary Inter-Provincial Coordination and newly appointed ad hoc President of the Pakistan Hockey Federation, Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani, for striving to improve the federation’s affairs.
“He [Mohyuddin Wani] is making serious efforts to streamline matters and bring stability to the federation. I am hopeful that under his leadership, the national game will be put back on track,” Junaid said.
Highlighting his own experience, he said he had previously served in the same role and remained closely connected with the sport through his academy. “I have always remained attached to hockey. Through my academy, I continue to work with young players and stay involved with the game,” he said.
Junaid concluded by reiterating his resolve to meet expectations. “I am fully aware of the expectations placed upon me and will make every possible effort to come up to them. Success comes only through hard work, discipline and dedication,” he added.