He expressed these views at the medals distribution ceremony after international hockey match between the former international players of Pakistan and Holland at Johar Hockey Ground, Friday. Acting Ambassador of Holland, Director General Sports, former Olympians and other officials concerned were present. The Chief Minister said that the new hockey ground where the Astroturf given by Holland will be laid is to be named as Holland Punjab Hockey Ground and international hockey matches will be conducted at the ground. The Chief Minister said that he is pleased to see the former international hockey players in action and the spectators also have the opportunity of witnessing the international standard hockey match.
He said that Punjab government is constructing new grounds for hockey for its promotion at the lower level and he is confident that Pakistan will regain its lost status in the field of hockey. He said it is the coincident that while former international hockey players of Holland and Pakistan played a hockey match today; the national hockey teams of the two countries will be facing each other tomorrow in the semi final of champion's trophy. The Chief Minister congratulated the coach, captain and players of Dutch hockey team on their victory in the match between the veterans' teams. The Chief Minister gave medals to the former international players of Pakistan and Holland and the trophy to the winning Dutch team at the conclusion of the match. The Chief Minister was presented a shield and a souvenir on behalf of Dar Hockey Academy and DG Sports.