Pakistan hockey captain Abu Bakar says the team is united and targeting a top-four finish at the World Cup in the Netherlands, with an important India clash ahead.
Pakistan hockey captain Abu Bakar has set an ambitious target for the national team ahead of the upcoming Hockey World Cup in the Netherlands, saying the squad is united and determined to fight for a place among the tournament’s top four teams.
Speaking to the media before the team’s departure, Abu Bakar said he was not under pressure despite taking responsibility for leading Pakistan at the global event. He emphasized that the entire squad was focused on the same objectives and that senior players had played an important role in building confidence within the team.
According to the newly appointed captain, Pakistan’s immediate goal is to reach the top four before attempting to secure a place on the victory podium.
Players including Imad Butt, Hannan Shahid and Sufyan Khan have also backed the team’s ambitions, with the squad discussing its targets collectively ahead of the tournament.
Abu Bakar also highlighted Pakistan’s much-anticipated encounter with arch-rivals India. He said the World Cup meeting would carry a different level of pressure compared with their previous FIH Pro League encounters.
The Pakistan-India rivalry remains one of the biggest attractions in international hockey, and Abu Bakar acknowledged that a World Cup fixture would bring additional intensity and significance. Despite the challenge, he said Pakistan would make every effort to defeat India and claim an important win.
The captain credited the squad’s unity and the support provided by senior players for creating a positive environment. He said leadership was not an individual responsibility and that success would ultimately depend on the collective performance of the team.
Pakistan enters the World Cup hoping to re-establish itself among the leading teams in international hockey. With strong opponents expected throughout the competition, consistency will be crucial if the side is to achieve its top-four target.
For Abu Bakar, the tournament will also represent a significant test of his leadership. His comments, however, indicate that he remains confident in his teammates and their preparations.
About The Author
