Pakistan hockey team players celebrate after scoring during their emphatic 7-2 win over Malaysia in the Sultan of Johor Cup match held in Johor Bahru on Saturday. Photo: X
The Pakistan men’s national field hockey team is preparing for a crucial stretch in 2026 after securing qualification for the FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup 2026, with upcoming matches in the FIH Pro League expected to play a key role in their preparations.
Pakistan sealed their place at the World Cup with a dramatic 4–3 victory over Japan men’s national field hockey team on 6 March 2026, ending an eight-year absence from the sport’s biggest tournament.
Officials from the Pakistan Hockey Federation say the focus has now shifted to the team’s first-ever participation in the FIH Pro League, where Pakistan will face several of the world’s top-ranked sides.
Pakistan will travel to Europe in June for a series of high-profile fixtures in Belgium and England.
The Pro League matches are expected to serve as a vital testing ground for Pakistan ahead of the FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup 2026, which will be staged across Belgium and Netherlands from 14 to 30 August.
The Pakistan Hockey Federation Adhoc Committee says it is committed to providing the team with the resources and support needed to compete at the highest level during the European tour and beyond.
Pakistan’s return to the Hockey World Cup after eight years has raised hopes among supporters that the former champions can re-establish themselves among the sport’s leading nations.
The upcoming FIH Pro League matches in Belgium and England will offer an early indication of how ready the side is for the challenge ahead.
Belgium leg (Wavre)
13 June – Pakistan vs Belgium
14 June – Pakistan vs Spain
18 June – Pakistan vs Belgium
20 June – Pakistan vs Spain
England leg
23 June – Pakistan vs India
24 June – Pakistan vs England
26 June – Pakistan vs India
28 June – Pakistan vs England