FROM 10 in Tokyo the last time, it is now down to seven in Paris, and split across just three disciplines. When Pakistan’s contingent marches out for the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics next week, it will be the country’s smallest in the history of the Games — matching the seven athletes sent to Rio de Janeiro in 2016. The failure of the hockey team to qualify for three Olympics straight has contributed to the downsizing of the contingent, but it is also reflective of how Pakistan has fallen behind as a sporting nation. Countries across the world, smaller in size and population, have used sports as a tool to promote a soft image. In Pakistan, however, there has been all talk and little action. Hardly any attention is paid to reforming a crumbling sports structure; policies for its revival remain stuck on the table and rarely take to the field. Despite all that, however, and relying purely on natural talent, Pakistan do have a genuine medal hope at the Olympics. Javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem not only qualified for the Games but also has a realistic chance of ending Pakistan’s 32-year Olympic medal drought. Shooter Kishmala Talat, Pakistan’s first markswoman to qualify for the Games and who won bronze at the Asian Games last year, holds an outside chance. But that’s about it.

For a country that once prided itself on its athletes, it is a sign of how fast matters have declined. It also indicates the lack of a proper national sports policy or framework. Federations for each sport run on their own, most claiming they are only answerable to their respective global bodies and not to the government. Athletes are complaining about the lack of funds and sporting events. It is a situation that must be urgently addressed. The government should work with the federations to formulate a national sports code to ensure greater participation and more medal chances.

Published in Dawn, July 21st, 2024