Lahore, July 16,2026: The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has finalised a comprehensive merit-based selection framework for the national team’s Hockey World Cup squad, introducing a modern evaluation system designed to identify the country’s top-performing players.
Under the proposed policy, players will be assessed in five key areas: physical fitness, technical ability, mental strength, attitude and overall match performance. The initiative aims to ensure a transparent and objective selection process as Pakistan prepares for the upcoming Hockey World Cup.
According to PHF officials, experienced foreign coaches will independently evaluate each player, awarding scores on a scale of one to five in each category. To remain eligible for World Cup selection, players must score at least three points in a minimum of three of the five assessment areas.
The federation believes the new criteria will ensure that national team selection is based on current performance and merit rather than reputation or previous achievements.
As part of the revamped system, the PHF will also utilise GPS tracking technology and video analysis to monitor players’ movement, work rate, decision-making and tactical awareness during training sessions and competitive matches.
Officials said the use of advanced performance analysis tools would provide accurate data to help coaches make informed and objective selection decisions.
The proposed selection framework will now be submitted to the PHF Selection Committee and the federation’s president for final approval before being formally implemented.
PHF officials described the initiative as a significant step towards introducing a transparent, merit-based and data-driven selection process aimed at restoring Pakistan’s competitiveness on the international stage.
The federation expressed hope that the new evaluation model would promote healthy competition among players while ensuring that only those meeting the highest performance standards earn places in the national squad.
With preparations for the Hockey World Cup gaining momentum, the PHF believes the revamped selection system will help build a stronger national team capable of competing with the world’s leading hockey nations and reviving Pakistan’s proud legacy in the sport.
