Pakistani runners London Marathon 2026 made a notable impact as a contingent of 18 athletes from Pakistan and the diaspora competed in the 42.195km race, reflecting both performance and endurance on a global stage. The race, part of the London Marathon series, saw more than 50,000 participants take part in one of the largest marathon events in the world. Among the standout names was Karachi-based runner Adnan Gandhi, a Six Star finisher, who completed his second consecutive London Marathon and his 11th World Marathon Major overall. His wife, Hira Diwan Gandhi, also a Six Star finisher, ran her sixth London Marathon and her 18th marathon overall. Denmark-based Zeeshan Rab added further depth to the contingent, taking part in his 55th marathon and his eighth race of the year, highlighting the experience within the Pakistani group. The group included runners from Pakistan, the UK, USA, Austria, Norway, UAE, and Denmark, demonstrating the strong role of the diaspora in international endurance events. Participants included Sarah Lodhi, Qamar Zia, Ahmer Khan, Naveed Hussain, Amin Mukaty, Faisal Shafi, Abdullah Athar, and several UK-based runners. Performance and Global Context While elite athletes dominated headlines, including Kenya’s Sabastian Sawe who clocked a historic 1:59:30, Pakistani runners focused on completing the race and achieving personal milestones. The London Marathon saw nearly 59,000 finishers, underlining its scale and competitiveness. Pakistani participants did not compete in the elite category but recorded respectable finishing times typical of amateur marathon runners. The fastest performances among Pakistani participants ranged in the approximate 3 to 4 hour bracket, while others completed the race within standard cut-off times of around six to seven hours, reflecting varying experience levels. Many runners also participated for charitable causes. Adnan Gandhi, for example, raised funds for the British Asian Trust, supporting mental health and youth employment initiatives in Pakistan. Read More: History Made: Kenya Star Breaks Two-Hour Marathon Barrier Representation, Challenges and Future Growth The participation of 18 Pakistani runners may appear modest, but it signals a steady rise in endurance sports from the country. Running communities in cities like Karachi and Lahore continue to expand, encouraging athletes to take part in global events. However, challenges remain. Pakistan lacks structured marathon training systems, elite coaching, and institutional backing. Many runners rely on personal training plans and community support. Despite this, the London Marathon 2026 performance highlights progress. The presence of multiple Six Star finishers indicates that Pakistani runners are achieving global milestones. Experts say international participation helps improve performance standards and inspires new runners. As exposure increases, more athletes are expected to compete at higher levels. For now, the achievements in London underline resilience and growing ambition. Pakistani runners may not yet dominate elite rankings, but their consistency and presence continue to build momentum on the global stage. Read More: Flair Travel Joins Hands with Pakistan Tennis Federation in Major Boost for Sports Tourism
PM Shehbaz Allows Fans for PSL 11 Final After Franchise Request
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved the presence of spectators for the final of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season 11, offering a boost to cricket fans after earlier matches were held behind closed doors due to security and economic concerns. The decision was confirmed by Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, who said the approval came after a formal request from franchise owners seeking to allow fans into the stadium for the high-profile final. Fans Set to Return for PSL 11 Final Naqvi said he had approached the prime minister to reconsider the earlier restriction on spectators, which had been imposed as part of broader austerity measures and security precautions. “However, on the request of franchise owners, he has graciously approved the presence of fans for the PSL 11 final,” Naqvi said in a post on X. The move is expected to revive the traditional atmosphere of PSL finals, which are typically marked by large crowds and strong fan engagement. The decision also comes as a relief for franchises, which had faced financial losses due to the absence of ticket revenue during earlier matches. Dear cricket fans, I requested Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to allow spectators in the stadiums. While he was also inclined to permit fans, he emphasized that austerity measures are currently in place across Pakistan, with efforts underway to minimize fuel consumption. However,… pic.twitter.com/jgp96vRiRe — Mohsin Naqvi (@MohsinnaqviC42) April 25, 2026 Earlier Matches Played Without Spectators The 2026 edition of the PSL was initially held without spectators, with matches restricted to Lahore and Karachi as part of government efforts to limit movement and reduce fuel consumption amid regional tensions. Authorities had cited economic pressures and security concerns as key reasons for the restrictions, with officials urging reduced travel and lower public gatherings. The absence of crowds had sparked debate among fans and stakeholders, with franchise owners highlighting the importance of live audiences for the league’s commercial success and overall experience. Read More:PCB Announces PSL 11 Ticket Refund Policy as Tournament Scaled Back Amid Fuel Crisis Positive Signal for Cricket and Public Engagement The approval for spectators at the final is being viewed as a positive step for Pakistan’s sporting landscape, signaling a gradual return to normalcy and renewed confidence in hosting large-scale events. Analysts say the decision balances economic realities with public interest, allowing fans to participate in one of the country’s most popular sporting events while maintaining broader policy considerations. The PSL, now in its 11th edition, has grown into a major cricket league with eight teams and a strong domestic and international following. With the final set to take place in Lahore, the return of spectators is expected to enhance the event’s atmosphere and provide a much-needed boost to fan engagement. Read More: Foreign Players Begin Arriving as PSL 11 Fever Builds Across Pakistan
NBP Signs Shahid Afridi to Boost Talent Development Across Pakistan
The National Bank of Pakistan has formally announced the appointment of Shahid Afridi as a Sports Consultant, marking a strategic move to strengthen the institution’s long-standing role in promoting sports across the country. Afridi, one of Pakistan’s most iconic cricketers, brings decades of experience to the role, along with a legacy that includes holding the record for the fastest One Day International century for 17 years. His appointment signals NBP’s intent to elevate its sports programs and expand its contribution to both grassroots and professional-level development. The announcement was made during a ceremony held at the NBP Head Office, where the bank’s President Rehmat Ali Hasnie, along with senior executives, welcomed Afridi to the organization. Strengthening NBP’s sports vision Speaking on the occasion, Hasnie emphasized the significance of Afridi’s inclusion in the bank’s sports framework. “We are honored to have Shahid Afridi join NBP Sports. His unparalleled experience, leadership, and passion for the game will greatly contribute to our mission of promoting sports excellence and developing talent at both grassroots and professional levels,” he said. NBP has historically played a key role in supporting sports in Pakistan, particularly through departmental teams and athlete development programs. Over the years, it has produced several renowned athletes across multiple disciplines, building a legacy that Afridi is now expected to further strengthen. Afridi outlines his mission Addressing attendees at the ceremony, Afridi said his decision to join NBP was driven by a shared vision of advancing sports in Pakistan. “I have joined NBP Sports with the aim of elevating its sports programs to the highest level,” he stated. He also acknowledged the bank’s longstanding contribution to the country’s sporting landscape. “NBP has played a pivotal role in promoting sports across the country and has a strong legacy of producing renowned athletes,” Afridi said. The former captain further highlighted his commitment to nurturing young talent, adding that he aims to help develop future sports stars through NBP’s platform. His focus, he said, would be on identifying emerging players and providing them with opportunities to grow within a structured system. Focus on grassroots and future athletes Afridi’s appointment is expected to bring renewed energy to NBP’s sports initiatives, particularly at the grassroots level where talent identification and development remain critical challenges. Industry observers say that bringing in high-profile athletes as mentors and advisors can significantly improve visibility and credibility, while also inspiring young players to pursue professional careers. With Afridi’s experience and public influence, NBP is likely to enhance its outreach programs, training structures and talent pipelines in the coming years. The move also aligns with broader efforts in Pakistan to revive institutional sports, which have historically been a backbone of athlete development but have faced challenges in recent times. A step toward long-term impact The addition of Afridi reinforces NBP’s broader vision of advancing sports in Pakistan and empowering the next generation of athletes. By combining institutional support with experienced leadership, the bank aims to create a more sustainable and competitive environment for sports development. As Afridi begins his new role, expectations remain high that his involvement will not only strengthen NBP’s programs but also contribute to shaping the future of sports in Pakistan.
Mohsin Naqvi Announces Jobs and Medical Support for Pakistan Hockey Team
Pakistan’s national hockey team has received a major boost after Mohsin Naqvi announced employment opportunities and medical support for the players, recognizing their recent achievements and efforts to revive the country’s legacy in the sport. The announcement comes as Pakistan hockey experiences renewed attention following the national team’s return to major international competitions. Government Announces Jobs for Hockey Players Speaking during an event honoring the national hockey team, Mohsin Naqvi revealed that players will be provided with government jobs to ensure financial stability. The decision aims to support athletes who have dedicated their careers to representing Pakistan on the international stage. Officials said the move recognizes the sacrifices made by hockey players who often struggle with limited financial resources despite competing at the highest level. Naqvi also praised the team’s performance and commitment, stating that Pakistan must continue to support its national sport and invest in its future. Read More: PM Shehbaz Announces Rs1.5 Million Reward for Each Pakistan Hockey Player Medical Support for National Players In addition to employment opportunities, the government has announced enhanced medical facilities for members of the national hockey team. Players will receive access to improved healthcare services to help them maintain peak physical condition and recover from injuries more effectively. Sports medicine specialists and physiotherapy support will also be made available to the squad as part of efforts to strengthen athlete welfare. Experts say such initiatives are crucial in modern sports, where fitness, recovery, and injury management play a central role in maintaining competitive performance. Reviving Pakistan’s Hockey Legacy Field hockey has long been considered Pakistan’s national sport. The country once dominated international hockey, winning multiple Olympic and World Cup titles. Pakistan remains the most successful team in the history of the Hockey World Cup, having won the tournament four times. However, the sport has faced challenges in recent decades due to limited funding, infrastructure issues, and growing competition from other nations. Officials believe that stronger institutional support, financial incentives, and improved training facilities could help revive the sport’s popularity. Recognition for Recent Achievements The announcement comes shortly after the national hockey team secured a place in a major international tournament after years of absence. The achievement was widely celebrated by fans and sports authorities, who viewed it as a sign that Pakistan hockey may be entering a new phase of revival. Government representatives said players who bring pride to the nation deserve proper recognition and long term support. The initiative to provide jobs and healthcare benefits is seen as an important step toward rebuilding confidence among athletes and encouraging young players to pursue hockey professionally. Read More: Pakistan Hockey Captain Blasts Federation After Troubled Australia Tour Support Needed for Long Term Success Sports analysts say the latest announcement is a positive development but emphasize that sustained investment will be needed to fully restore Pakistan’s hockey prominence. Modern training facilities, grassroots development programs, and regular international exposure will all be essential for rebuilding the national team’s competitiveness. With renewed attention from policymakers and sports authorities, many fans hope Pakistan hockey can once again return to its historic place among the world’s top teams.
PM Shehbaz Announces Rs1.5 Million Reward for Each Pakistan Hockey Player
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has announced a cash reward of Rs1.5 million for each player of Pakistan’s national hockey team after their impressive performance in the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 qualifiers. The announcement recognizes the team’s determination and their achievement of qualifying for the World Cup after an eight year absence. According to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office Media Wing, the reward acknowledges the hard work and dedication of the players and serves as a step toward promoting hockey in Pakistan. “This initiative is not only an acknowledgement of the team’s hard work and dedication to the sport but also a major step toward the promotion of hockey in Pakistan,” the PM Office said in the statement. The announcement has been widely welcomed by sports fans and former players, many of whom see it as an important signal of renewed government support for the national sport. Dramatic Victory That Secured World Cup Spot Pakistan secured qualification for the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup after defeating Japan 4–3 in a dramatic semifinal during the qualifiers held in Ismailia, Egypt. The match showcased the resilience of the Pakistani team, which made a strong comeback after falling behind during the game. Pakistan initially took the lead in the first quarter before Japan equalized in the second. Japan then moved ahead with two goals in the third quarter to take a 3–1 lead. However, the Green Shirts mounted a remarkable comeback in the final quarter, scoring three goals to clinch the thrilling victory. Muhammad Ammad, Abu Bakar Mahmood, Sufyan Khan and Afraz each scored one goal for Pakistan. Muhammad Ammad was declared Player of the Match for his standout performance. Statistics from the match showed Pakistan’s attacking dominance with 28 circle penetrations compared to Japan’s 17, reflecting the team’s aggressive approach throughout the contest. Renewed Hope for Pakistan’s National Sport Hockey holds a special place in Pakistan’s sporting history. The country has won four Olympic gold medals and four Hockey World Cups, making it one of the most successful nations in the sport. However, the team has struggled in recent decades due to financial constraints, administrative issues and lack of infrastructure. The recent qualification for the 2026 World Cup has sparked renewed hope for the revival of Pakistan’s national game. Sports analysts say the team’s performance in the qualifiers has reignited enthusiasm among fans across the country. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also praised the players for their commitment and encouraged them to maintain the same spirit in future competitions. He assured that the government will continue to provide facilities and support to help the team perform at the highest level. Looking Ahead to the 2026 Hockey World Cup The FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 is scheduled to take place in Belgium and the Netherlands and will feature 16 teams from around the world. Pakistan’s qualification marks an important milestone for the national team as it aims to restore its historic dominance in international hockey. With government recognition, financial incentives and growing public support, experts believe Pakistan hockey could be entering a new phase of revival. If the momentum continues, the Green Shirts may once again become a formidable force in global hockey.
