By:-Ghani Ur Rehman
PESHAWAR: The decision to exclude Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) from hosting any events during the 2027 South Asian Games has triggered concern among the province’s sports fraternity, with many questioning why a region that has consistently produced top athletes has been left out of Pakistan’s biggest upcoming international sporting event.
The issue gained prominence during a meeting between veteran sports administrator Syed Aqil Shah and Faisal Karim Kundi, where Shah urged the Governor to take up the matter with the federal government and national sports authorities.
A Province with a Rich Sporting Legacy
Pakistan will host the 2027 South Asian Games as a national event representing the entire country. However, the current venue plan reportedly excludes KP altogether, raising concerns over equal provincial representation.
The province has long been regarded as a major contributor to Pakistan’s sporting success. From producing national and international athletes to maintaining established sports infrastructure, KP has remained an important pillar of the country’s sports landscape. Peshawar alone has stadiums, gymnasiums and training facilities capable of hosting international competitions.
Many in the sports community argue that overlooking these facilities sends the wrong message to athletes and sports lovers across the province.
Aqil Shah Raises the Issue
Syed Aqil Shah, one of Pakistan’s most experienced sports administrators, believes KP deserves a meaningful role in hosting the Games. Having served as President of the KP Olympic Association, Senior Vice President of the Pakistan Olympic Association and former Provincial Minister for Sports, Shah has spent decades promoting sports development in the province.
His appeal is not presented as a personal grievance but as a demand for fair representation for KP and its athletes.
Why the Governor?
Shah approached Governor Faisal Karim Kundi because the Governor serves as the federation’s constitutional representative in the province and can raise provincial concerns with federal authorities. Since the South Asian Games fall under national sports bodies and the federal government’s domain, the Governor is well placed to advocate for KP’s inclusion.
According to those present at the meeting, Governor Kundi expressed regret over the province’s exclusion and assured Shah that he would raise the matter with the relevant authorities.
More Than Just Sports
Supporters of KP’s inclusion argue that hosting a portion of the Games in Peshawar would carry benefits beyond competition. It would demonstrate Pakistan’s improved security environment, showcase the province’s modern sports facilities, and present KP as a vibrant destination for international sporting events.
International competitions also provide inspiration for young athletes, offering them the opportunity to witness elite performances at home while encouraging greater participation in sports.
Time for a Review
With preparations for the 2027 South Asian Games still underway, sports stakeholders believe there is still time for the venue plan to be reconsidered. They argue that allocating even a few events to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa would promote national unity, ensure equitable provincial participation and recognize the province’s longstanding contribution to Pakistani sports.
As Pakistan prepares to welcome South Asia’s premier sporting event, the question remains whether Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will be given the opportunity to play its part. For many in the province, the answer will reflect not only the future of sports administration but also the commitment to inclusive national representation.
