Fatima Zehra's recent accomplishment at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow has garnered praise from seasoned boxing coach Arshad Hussain. The former international boxer emphasized that her bronze medal is a significant milestone for female athletes in Pakistan, showcasing their potential on a global stage.
"Winning a medal at the Commonwealth Games is no small feat, especially for female athletes," Arshad remarked in an interview with The Express Tribune. Having participated in the Commonwealth Games himself, he understands the level of competition and the effort required to succeed. He acknowledged Fatima's determination in securing two victories to earn her medal, a commendable achievement given the diverse field of competitors.
While celebrating Fatima's success, Arshad expressed disappointment regarding fellow boxer Qudratullah's decision to abandon the team after the Games. He questioned the motivations behind Qudratullah's choice, highlighting the need for support and guidance for athletes facing such dilemmas.
Arshad also called on the Pakistan Boxing Federation (PBF) to invest more in female boxers, noting the potential talent within the country. He mentioned three promising fighters: Fatima Zehra, Malaika, and Maria, urging the federation to provide them with advanced training opportunities. "With proper skills training and international exposure, I believe these athletes can excel," he stated.
In addition to discussing female boxing, Arshad acknowledged the efforts of male boxers at the Commonwealth Games. However, he pointed out that they struggled with technical and physical aspects of their performance. He emphasized the importance of comprehensive training to enhance their competitiveness on the international stage.
Arshad highlighted the challenges faced by the sport in Pakistan, particularly the lack of government support. He noted the country's rich history in boxing but stressed that without adequate backing, progress would remain elusive. He criticized the limited preparation time provided to boxers, stating, "A 20-day camp is insufficient for athletes to prepare for such a significant event. Winning medals requires serious commitment and preparation, which we currently lack."
Looking ahead, Arshad expressed skepticism about Pakistan's prospects at the upcoming Asian Games, predicting a tougher competition compared to the Commonwealth Games. He cited the presence of boxing powerhouses such as Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Thailand, Japan, China, and the Philippines as formidable challenges for Pakistani athletes. "The competition will be significantly tougher, and I fear our boxers will find it difficult to achieve noteworthy results," he concluded.
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