PHF appoints Olympian Manzoor ul Hassan as head coach ahead of World Cup return
PHF appoints Olympian Manzoor ul Hassan as head coach ahead of World Cup return
By Nawaz Gohar ; In a significant move ahead of Pakistan’s long-awaited return to the global stage, the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has appointed Olympian Manzoor Ul-Hassan as head coach of the national men’s team.
The decision comes as Pakistan prepares for its first appearance at the FIH Hockey World Cup since 2018, scheduled to be held from August 15 to 30. Manzoor, a member of Pakistan’s bronze medal-winning squad at the 1976 Montreal Olympics, replaces former international Khawaja Junaid, who had overseen the team during the recent World Cup Qualifiers.
In a parallel development, the PHF has entrusted legendary forward Samiullah Khan with the responsibility of heading a full-time national selection committee. The panel includes Naeem Akhtar, Kashif Jawad, Mohammad Khalid, Nasir Ali and Atif Bashir, reflecting a blend of experience aimed at strengthening squad selection.
The federation has also restructured its developmental framework, appointing Ayaz Mahmood as head coach of the junior team, while Qamar Ibrahim will oversee the Under-18 side. Notably, head coaches will play an active role in the selection process, a move designed to ensure better coordination between team management and selectors.
These appointments follow Pakistan’s impressive qualification campaign, which ended an eight-year absence from the World Cup. The Green Shirts secured their berth with a thrilling 4-3 victory over Japan in the semi-final of the qualifiers held in Ismailia, Egypt.
Pakistan’s journey in the qualifiers showcased resilience and attacking flair. They opened with a narrow 5-4 win against China, driven by a brace from Rana Waheed, before overcoming Malaysia 5-3 in a commanding display. The team then sealed their group stage with a convincing 4-2 victory over Austria, where Abu Mahmood struck twice.
Despite their strong run, Pakistan fell short in the final, suffering a 4-1 defeat against England. However, the overall performance signaled a resurgence, offering renewed hope for the national side.
With a revamped coaching structure and experienced leadership now in place, Pakistan will look to build momentum and make a meaningful impact at the upcoming World Cup, marking a fresh chapter in the country’s storied hockey legacy.
