2024: Pakistan falls behind in Sports

As you read this, the last sunset of 2024 draws near, marking the end of a challenging year. The final rays of sunlight set the stage for reflection on the year’s partial successes and disappointments.

While the dawn of 2025 brings hope, the revival of Pakistan’s sports scene remains an unanswered question.

Pakistan’s sports faced numerous setbacks this year, compounded by political turbulence. Favoritism overshadowed merit, stifling talented players and opening doors for the less deserving. As politics infiltrated the sports domain, athletes struggled to find a supportive environment for growth.

Javelin Throw

Javelin throw, an underrated sport in Pakistan, became a source of pride thanks to Arshad Nadeem. His outstanding performance earned Pakistan its only gold medal of the year. Arshad secured the top spot at the Paris Olympics with a remarkable 92.97-meter throw.

This victory is even more impressive considering the lack of proper training facilities and competitive platforms for javelin throwers in Pakistan. Arshad’s success highlights the potential of individual talent when supported by determination and hard work.

Cricket

Cricket, Pakistan’s most-followed sport, saw a tumultuous year. Leadership issues plagued the team, with frequent changes in captaincy and administrative roles. Shan Masood managed to hold onto his position as captain, while Mohsin Naqvi solidified his role as PCB chairman.

The year began with the Qadir-Benaud Trophy’s final Test in Sydney, where Pakistan suffered a one-sided defeat. Pakistan played only seven Tests in 2024, winning two and losing five. A long hiatus from Test matches ended in August when Bangladesh toured Pakistan, defeating the hosts in both matches and claiming their first-ever series victory against Pakistan.

October brought redemption as Pakistan defeated England in a home series, winning two of three Tests. Spinners Sajid Khan and Nauman Ali played pivotal roles in securing these victories. However, the team narrowly missed a win in the year’s last Test against South Africa, despite a stellar bowling effort by Mohammad Abbas.

In ODIs, Pakistan performed relatively better, winning seven of nine matches. Highlights included historic series wins against Australia and South Africa, though a surprising loss to Zimbabwe raised questions. Saim Ayub shone with the bat, scoring 515 runs, including three centuries, while Shaheen Afridi led the bowling charts with 14 wickets.

T20 cricket was a disappointment, especially in the World Cup, where Pakistan failed to progress beyond the first round. Losses to India and the USA led to Babar Azam losing his captaincy. The team played 27 T20 matches, winning nine and losing 16, with inconsistency plaguing their performance.

Women’s Cricket

Pakistan’s women’s cricket team faced a tough year, failing to win a single match in the T20 World Cup. Out of 19 matches, they won only five. While Fatima Sana stood out for her individual performance, the team’s overall results highlighted the need for significant improvements and better facilities.

Hockey

Hockey, once Pakistan’s pride, continued its downward trajectory. For the first time, Pakistan failed to qualify for the Paris Olympics, marking a historic low. The only highlight was a silver medal in the Azlan Shah Cup, where Pakistan lost to Japan in the final.

Squash

Squash, a sport dominated by Pakistan in the past, remains in decline due to limited resources and players. However, the country saw glimpses of hope with young stars like 13-year-old Mahnoor Ali and 12-year-old Adnan Sohail winning junior championships in the USA and Scotland, respectively.

As 2024 ends, Pakistan’s sports sector faces significant challenges. Political interference, lack of infrastructure, and inconsistent leadership hinder progress. While individual talents like Arshad Nadeem and young squash champions offer hope, collective improvement will require systemic changes and greater investment.

The new year brings a chance to rebuild and set Pakistan’s sports on a path to success. Only time will tell if the sun will rise again for Pakistan’s sports.

Reported by Syed Haider