Our Correspondent
BANNU: The 3rd Army Chief Inter-Club Hockey Tournament formally got underway in Bannu, featuring participation from nine leading hockey clubs from across the district. A large turnout of spectators at the opening reflected the strong passion for hockey among local fans.
The inaugural match was played between Bacha Khan White Hockey Club and Saeed Khan Hockey Club. The contest proved to be one-sided as Bacha Khan White dominated throughout the match, securing a convincing 10–0 victory. Their players impressed the audience with superior footwork, strong coordination, and an aggressive attacking approach.
In the second match, Khadim Hockey Club Bannu faced Amandi Hockey Club Bannu in a closely contested encounter. Both teams displayed disciplined play, but Khadim Hockey Club edged out their opponents with a narrow 1–0 win, thanks to solid defense and timely finishing.
The opening ceremony was attended by Regional Sports Officer Peshawar Kashif Farhan as the chief guest. He was accompanied by District Hockey Association President Younis Khan, Secretary General Naeem Khan, and international hockey players from Bannu, Ehsanullah and Sufyan Khan. The guests met the players and described the tournament as a positive step toward the revival and promotion of hockey in the region.
Refereeing duties were carried out by Falak Zaman and Waleed Khan, whose fair and professional officiating was widely appreciated by both players and spectators.
Addressing the gathering, Regional Sports Officer Kashif Farhan said that club-level competitions form the foundation of any sport. He noted that strong performance and structure at the club level enable a sport to gain recognition at national and international forums. Highlighting Bannu’s contribution to hockey, he said the district holds the unique distinction of producing four national hockey captains for Pakistan, reflecting the area’s rich talent base.
He further stated that the Directorate of Sports and the Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are fully committed to supporting sports and athletes at all levels. Expressing optimism, he added that with continued efforts, Pakistan will soon reclaim its lost stature in international hockey.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, the chief guest and other dignitaries commended the organizers for the successful conduct of the tournament and encouraged players to continue competing with dedication, discipline, and sportsmanship.
