Islamabad, 18 October 2026 (Ghufran): A major development has emerged in efforts to revive Pakistan’s national sport, as the National Bank of Pakistan (NBP) has decided to re-establish its departmental hockey team. The move is being viewed as an important step towards restoring institutional support for hockey in the country. The decision has been welcomed by the hockey community, particularly talented young players seeking stable employment opportunities and a platform to demonstrate their abilities at the highest level. The recruitment process for players is set to begin immediately, while the NBP hockey team will also participate in the upcoming National Games. The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has warmly welcomed the initiative, expressing confidence that the return of a major national institution to departmental hockey will strengthen the country’s hockey structure and create employment opportunities for players. PHF President Mohiuddin Ahmad Wani described the decision as a positive and timely step for the future of Pakistan hockey. He thanked the leadership of the National Bank of Pakistan for supporting the promotion of the sport and creating new opportunities for players. He further emphasised that the revival of departmental hockey was essential for improving players’ financial security, strengthening competition at the national level and developing future national-team talent.