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

During his international career (1965-1972), Fazal, who played in the left-half position, 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. Abbottabad’s pleasant summer weather made it a prime location for the Khan Memorial Tournament, further nurturing his talent.

Known affectionately as ‘Lala Fazal,’ he later represented PIA in the domestic circuit and dedicated time to coaching youngsters in Abbottabad. His nephew, Naeem Akhtar, followed in his footsteps, playing for Pakistan from 1982-1988 and winning an Olympic gold in 1984.

After retiring from PIA in 1987, Lala Fazal devoted himself entirely to promoting hockey in Abbottabad, running the Fazal Hockey Club and the Fazal Hockey Academy. Nine players from his academy went on to play for Pakistan’s national and age-group teams. His son, Inamur Rahman, was part of the gold medal-winning team at the 2006 South Asian Games in Colombo, Sri Lanka.

Fazal’s contemporaries remember him as an exceptional player, marked by total commitment and a high degree of confidence. He redefined the role of the left-half in the traditional Indo-Pakistan format, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of hockey.

Rest in peace, Lala Fazal. Your contributions to the game and your community will never be forgotten.