The National Bank of Pakistan (NBP) has extended heartfelt congratulations to Pakistan’s national hockey team for reaching the final of the FIH Nations Cup — a historic milestone that has reignited hope for a bright future in the country’s beloved sport.
In a nail-biting semi-final against France, the Green Shirts clinched victory through a dramatic 3-2 penalty shootout, booking their spot in the championship final of one of international hockey’s most prestigious tournaments.
For NBP, this triumph hits close to home. Since establishing its dedicated Sports Department in 1974 and launching its hockey team in 1966, the bank has played a foundational role in developing and promoting field hockey in Pakistan. Many of the national team’s standout stars, including current captain Ammad Shakeel Butt (President’s Award for Pride of Performance, Tamgha-e-Imtiaz) and Junaid Manzoor, hail from NBP’s hockey ranks.
The coaching team too — Head Coach Tahir Zaman, Assistant Coaches Asif Ahmed Khan and Zeeshan Ashraf, along with Goalkeeping Coach Mazhar Abbas — are all part of NBP’s longstanding commitment to Pakistan’s national sport. Their leadership and vision have played a crucial role in the team’s impressive performance throughout the tournament.
To honor the team’s achievement, NBP hosted a celebration at its Head Office. NBP President & CEO Mr. Rehmat Ali Hasnie led the event, recognizing the players’ outstanding efforts and presenting shields to acknowledge their excellence. Senior executives also attended the occasion, standing proudly alongside the athletes who continue to bring global recognition to Pakistan.
Mr. Hasnie spoke with visible pride, saying, “This is more than just a win — it’s the beginning of a new golden chapter in Pakistani hockey. Our players have reminded the world of the passion, skill, and potential that Pakistani hockey still holds.”
He further reaffirmed NBP’s commitment to athletic development: “As part of our core mission ‘National Bank Aur Pakistan,’ we continue to invest in young talent and offer platforms that provide the exposure and infrastructure needed for growth. We remain dedicated to helping Pakistan reclaim its legacy in world hockey.”
With the final still ahead, and future tournaments on the horizon, NBP has vowed to stay firmly behind the national team and contribute toward the revival of hockey glory in Pakistan.
