These matches form part of Pakistan’s debut season in the elite FIH Pro League, following their promotion after finishing runners-up in the Nations Cup. The series will be a tough test against higher-ranked opponents, but it marks a significant step in Pakistan hockey’s revival on the global stage
DNA
Islamabad — The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has officially announced the national men’s hockey team squad for the second phase of the FIH Hockey Pro League 2025-26 and the upcoming World Cup qualifying round. The 20-player squad, along with six officials, will depart for Australia on February 2, 2026.The announcement was made at the Naseer Bunda Hockey Stadium by PHF Secretary Rana Mujahid and Head Coach Tahir Zaman.
The same squad will represent Pakistan in both the Pro League matches in Australia and the FIH Hockey Men’s World Cup Qualifiers (scheduled for early 2026, including events in Egypt and other venues).Mohammad Emmad Butt (also referred to as Imad Butt) will captain the Green Shirts.Squad Changes for Pro LeagueTwo changes have been made to the squad compared to the earlier phase (played in Argentina in December 2025):Goalkeeper Abdullah Ishtiaq has been replaced by Ali Raza.
Manan Raza (or Abdul Manan) has been replaced by Umeer Sattar (Umir Sattar).
Full Squad (Players)Muneeb ur Rehman
Ali Raza
Arshad Liaquat
Mohammad Abdullah
Sufyan Khan
Arbaz Ahmad
Hamad Anjum
Moeed Shakeel (Moeen Shail)
Ghazanfar Ali
Zakaria Liaquat (Zakrya Liaqat)
Umeer Sattar
Hanan Shahid (Abdul Hanan Shahid)
Rana Waheed
Nadeem Ahmad (Ahmed Nadeem)
Abdul Rehman
Rana Waleed (Rana Mohammad Walid)
Afraz
Abu Bakar
(The squad comprises 18 named players in the announcement, with two additional spots likely reserved or to be confirmed.)OfficialsHead Coach: Tahir Zaman
Mohammad Usman
Zeeshan Ashraf
Nadeem Lodhi
Mohammad Aslam
Adeel
Key StatementsPHF Secretary Rana Mujahid confirmed that players’ outstanding dues have been raised with the government, and all payments are expected to be cleared by Friday.
Head Coach Tahir Zaman noted that facing strong teams like Australia and Germany will be challenging, but the Pro League provides a valuable opportunity. Pakistan will play 16 matches in the league overall, offering excellent preparation ahead of the World Cup qualifiers.
He emphasized that this is a rare chance after a long time to compete against top-ranked nations, ensuring solid practice for the team.Captain Mohammad Emmad Butt said the players’ morale is high, things are improving, and he hopes the Prime Minister will provide further support to the national sport.Match Schedule (Hobart, Australia – Second Phase)February 10, 2026: Pakistan vs Australia
February 11, 2026: Pakistan vs Germany
February 13, 2026: Pakistan vs Australia
February 14, 2026: Pakistan vs Germany
These matches form part of Pakistan’s debut season in the elite FIH Pro League, following their promotion after finishing runners-up in the Nations Cup. The series will be a tough test against higher-ranked opponents, but it marks a significant step in Pakistan hockey’s revival on the global stage. Pakistan hockey fans will be watching closely as the Green Shirts aim to build momentum for the World Cup qualification campaign.
