After a historic performance at the 30th Azlan Shah Hockey Cup, the Pakistan hockey team were greeted with a hero's welcome upon their return to Lahore International Airport, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.
On Saturday, the team secured a silver medal in a gripping final held in Ipoh, Malaysia.
Pakistan’s hockey legends Akhtar Rasool, Muhammad Saqlain, Shehbaz Sr., Khalid Hameed, Anjum Saeed, Malik Shafqat, and Muhammad Shafique were also present to accord welcome the players.
The team's remarkable journey to the final, a feat achieved after a 13-year hiatus, has been hailed by the nation as a significant milestone in the resurgence of the nation's beloved sport.
PM Youth Loan Program Chairman Rana Mashood received the hockey team and management with garlands and drum beaters.
Punjab Sports Minister Faisal Ayub already announced Rs2 million for the team on qualifying for the final of the event.
Speaking to the media at the airport, hockey team captain Imad Butt said he was proud of the team that showed brilliant performance at the Azlan Shah Cup.
He said the silver at the tournament will play a vital role in the revival of hockey in the country.
The skipper said the team would further improve its performance and bring titles and victories in the upcoming games.
The Green Shirts on Saturday fell in the final of the six-nation invitational tournament as Japan clinched the title on penalty shootouts.
Japan scored the first goal in the 12th minute taking advantage of Pakistan’s weak defence. Pakistan drew level and then took the lead against Japan in the second half. The Japanese side then equalised late to send the game to a penalty shootout.
Overall, Pakistan displayed an exceptional performance in the tournament. The three-time former Sultan Azlan Shah Cup champions registered three wins – against South Korea,
Malaysia and Canada – and two draws against Japan and New Zealand.