Pakistan Hockey Team Faces Embarrassment After Reportedly Forgetting Protective Gear During FIH World Cup Clash | Video

During the opening match of the FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup 2026, Pakistan’s men’s hockey team faced an embarrassing moment when they reportedly forgot essential protective gear in the dressing room. This incident occurred during a penalty corner situation in the first half of the match against England. The protective equipment, required for defenders during penalty corners, was absent from the pitch when England was awarded a set piece around the 17th minute.

Pakistan’s player had to run back to the changing room to retrieve the necessary gear before play could resume. This blunder added to Pakistan’s disappointing performance, as they eventually lost the match 1-4. The delay in resuming the game resulted in further trouble for Pakistan, with captain Abu Bakar Mahmood receiving a green card and serving a two-minute suspension.

Former Pakistan captain Salman Akbar criticized the team’s lack of preparation and organization, describing the incident as an "unwanted record" and questioning the team’s discipline and professionalism. The off-field blunder further hampered Pakistan’s efforts, as they now face Wales and arch-rivals India in their upcoming matches.