Narowal: In a spirited exhibition hockey match held at Narowal Sports City, the Pakistan Rangers secured a 3-1 victory over China’s Guangdong team. The event was attended by Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, Professor Ahsan Iqbal, who served as the chief guest. A sizable crowd, including students from various educational institutions and local residents, gathered to witness the friendly encounter, cheering for both teams throughout the match.
According to Press Information Department, the match was a testament to the strong sportsmanship and enduring friendship between Pakistan and China. The national anthems of both countries were played before the match, underscoring the mutual respect and close ties between the nations. Prizes and shields were awarded to the players and match officials at the end of the contest.
Professor Ahsan Iqbal addressed the attendees, reminiscing about the past successes of Pakistan’s hockey team and emphasizing the need to restore its former glory on the international stage. He highlighted the importance of providing young players with modern facilities and quality training to help them excel.
Reflecting on his personal experiences, the minister mentioned the politically motivated challenges he faced regarding the development of Narowal Sports City. However, he expressed satisfaction in witnessing the joy on the faces of young attendees, seeing it as a fulfillment of his vision to host international sporting events in Narowal.
He further stated that Narowal Sports City is expected to offer opportunities for young athletes to develop their talents and represent Pakistan in international competitions. Stressing on the values of hard work and perseverance, the minister encouraged the youth to dedicate themselves to their ambitions and contribute to Pakistan’s recognition on the world stage.
The exhibition match, he noted, was a symbol of the longstanding friendly relations between Pakistan and China. The participation of the Guangdong team in Narowal was seen as a step towards strengthening bilateral ties and fostering people-to-people connections through sports. Professor Iqbal warmly welcomed the Chinese team and expressed hope for future collaborations.
The match was part of broader initiatives aimed at promoting international sports activities in Narowal, encouraging youth participation in sports, and reinforcing the friendly relations between the two countries. The enthusiastic turnout of students and local residents highlighted the public’s interest in sporting events and rekindled passion for hockey, Pakistan’s national sport.