In a nation where sports infrastructure remains underfunded and many disciplines struggle to find mainstream recognition, Pakistan’s youth continue to carve out remarkable stories of triumph on the global stage. The latest testament to this tenacity came from South Korea, where Pakistan’s U-16 girls’ netball team clinched the Asian Youth Netball Championship title with a resounding 60-35 win over the Maldives in the final. Staying undefeated throughout the tournament, the team has brought home the trophy in triumph.
Netball, like many other sports in Pakistan, exists in the shadows of cricket. Government support is negligible, sponsorships are rare, and media coverage is minimal. Athletes often pay out of pocket for training or rely on passionate coaches working in difficult conditions.
Yet, results like these show that the raw talent and commitment of Pakistan’s youth is not in question. What is in question is whether the country is willing to invest in its sporting future. A national sports policy that focuses on development at the school and grassroots levels is urgently needed. Support for women’s sports must also move beyond tokenism to structured programs and facilities.
The fact that the Prime Minister and the Pakistan Embassy in Seoul publicly congratulated the team is encouraging, but mere praise must translate into policy. These victories should serve as a wake-up call for the country’s sports authorities to expand their focus beyond a few marquee sports. We must invest in grassroots development and offer platforms for youth to compete, both locally and internationally. The talent is clearly there. What is now needed is a system that catches up to the ambition of these budding athletes to realise their true potential and have them perform at the global stage.
