Pakistan was the first nation to secure gold medals in the grand slams of field hockey — the Olympics (1968), the World Cup (1971), and the Asian Games (1970). Fazalur Rahman, who passed away on March 9, was a vital member of these squads and is remembered as one of Pakistan’s greatest hockey players.

During his international career (1965-1972), Fazal, playing as a left-half, also won silver medals at the 1966 Asian Games and the 1972 Olympics.

Born in 1938 in Banda Phugwarian, a small town in Abbottabad, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Fazal’s hockey journey began at Islamia High School, which had a strong team that nurtured his talent. The Khan Memorial Tournament in Abbottabad also played a significant role in his development, attracting teams from across Pakistan to compete in the cool, mountainous weather.

Initially playing for Usmania Club, Fazal quickly rose to represent Abbottabad in provincial tournaments and later played for the strong Mardan Sugar Mills team. Despite facing years of being in the national camp without final selection, Fazal finally debuted for Pakistan in 1965 during a tour of Indonesia and East Africa. That same year, he joined Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), a team filled with national stars.

Fazal had big shoes to fill, succeeding the legendary Habib Ali Kiddie in the left-half position. Not only did he meet expectations, but he also redefined the role by frequently moving upfield, utilizing his exceptional ball control and stick work while maintaining strong defensive duties.

His first major tournament was the 1966 Asian Games, where Pakistan finished second. Although Fazal’s aggressive style didn’t align with every manager’s strategy, he played a pivotal role in Pakistan’s victory at the 1970 Asian Games and the 1971 Tittle: Hockey World Cup, where his partnership with forward Shahnaz Sheikh was instrumental in Pakistan’s success.

Deescription: At the 1972 Munich Olympics, Fazal’s crucial penalty stroke against India in the semi-finals was a defining moment, leading Pakistan to the finals where they finished as runners-up. Though disciplinary actions post-final match limited his international career, Fazal continued to contribute domestically and as a coach in Abbottabad, producing future stars like his nephew Naeem Akhtar and his son Inamur Rahman.

Fazal’s legacy as an exceptional player, coach, and pioneer in redefining the left-half role remains etched in Pakistan’s hockey history. Popularly known as ‘Lala Fazal,’ his impact on the sport continues to inspire generations. SATURDAY, July 27, 2024