Pakistan Invited to FIH Pro League Following New Zealand’s Withdrawal

The Pakistan men’s hockey team has received an invitation to participate in the upcoming FIH Pro League, according to sources. This development follows New Zealand’s withdrawal from the competition’s next season.

The International Hockey Federation (FIH) extended the invitation after New Zealand, the Nations Cup champions, decided not to participate in the Pro League.

In the Nations Cup final held in Malaysia, New Zealand defeated Pakistan with a score of 2-0. This victory initially secured New Zealand’s place in the Pro League.

However, due to unspecified reasons for New Zealand’s withdrawal, the FIH has offered the spot to Pakistan, acknowledging their position as runner-up in the Nations Cup.

An official announcement from the FIH confirming Pakistan’s inclusion is anticipated soon. The FIH Pro League is a prominent international tournament featuring top-tier hockey teams globally.

The league is important for teams aiming to accumulate ranking points and gain experience against elite competitors.

Pakistan’s participation marks their return to the league after missing recent editions, which contributed to their drop in global rankings, where they currently stand at 17th. This opportunity is poised to enhance the team’s global performance and exposure. The next FIH Pro League season is slated to commence in February 2026.

Flashback: FIH Nations Cup Final

New Zealand secured the FIH Nations Cup title with a 6-2 victory over Pakistan in the final at the National Hockey Stadium. New Zealand began the match aggressively, scoring two early goals, although initially disallowed. They opened the scoring in the sixth minute with a penalty corner conversion by Scott Cosslett.

Sam Hiha increased the lead with a field goal just before the end of the first quarter. New Zealand continued their dominance in the second quarter, with Dylan Thomas scoring a third goal within two minutes.

Shortly after, Sean Findlay scored a field goal, followed by Scott Boyde, making it 5-0 before halftime.

Pakistan responded in the third quarter with a goal by Zikriya Hayat in the fifth minute. Despite earning five penalty corners in the same quarter, Pakistan couldn’t convert, leaving the score at 5-1.

In the final quarter, New Zealand further extended their lead with another penalty corner conversion by Cosslett.

Pakistan managed to score their second goal through Sufyan Khan, who converted a penalty corner shortly after, but it was insufficient to mount a comeback.

New Zealand secured the win with a score of 6-2, claiming the FIH Nations Cup trophy.