LAHORE: Pakistan hockey received a timely boost as national drag-flick specialist Sufyan Muhammad Khan resumed full training following his recovery from a knee injury.
Sufyan, widely regarded as the country’s premier penalty corner expert, is back on the turf, gradually regaining match fitness under close supervision. Sufyan’s injury had forced him out of the national squad at the last moment during preparations for the Belgium and England Pro League season, leaving Pakistan without its most reliable short-corner weapon. His return now comes as a major relief ahead of upcoming international fixtures.
Born on March 13, 2004, in Bannu, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sufyan’s journey reflects a steady climb through Pakistan’s hockey system. He began training under former national player Ehsanullah, before honing his skills at Lahore’s prestigious Dar Hockey Academy. His domestic career saw him represent the Pakistan Navy (2022–23) and later Mari Petroleum in 2023.
At the junior level, standout performances in the Sultan of Johor Cup, Junior Asia Cup, and the 2023 Junior Hockey World Cup paved his way into the senior side. He made his senior debut at the 2022 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, quickly establishing himself as Pakistan’s go-to drag-flicker.
Sufyan’s drag-flicks have been central to Pakistan’s recent campaigns in the Asian Champions Trophy 2023 with 5 goals, in Asian Games 2023 with 3 goals, Asian Champions Trophy 2024: 6 goals, instrumental in Pakistan’s Bronze Medal finish, in Sultan Azlan Shah Cup 2024: Scored his maiden international hat-trick against Malaysia and also earned FIH recognition as he was named “Rising Star of the Year” in 2024.
