Photo: ISPR

DHAKA, May 23, 2026 (BSS) – The national women’s hockey and kabaddi teams were felicitated in recognition of their recent international achievements today, alongside the unveiling of Bangladesh’s men’s and women’s jerseys for the upcoming Under-18 Asia Cup Hockey.

The ceremony was held at BAF Falcon Hall in Tejgaon, said an Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) Directorate release this evening.

State Minister for Youth and Sports Md Aminul Haque, Chief of Air Staff of Bangladesh Air Force and President of Bangladesh Hockey Federation Hasan Mahmood Khan and Prime Minister’s daughter Barrister Zaima Rahman attended the event.

In his address, the state minister reiterated the government’s commitment to the development and welfare of athletes, highlighting ongoing initiatives such as sports cards and allowances for players, the “Notun Kuri Sports” programme, and steps toward making sports education compulsory.

The Air Chief urged athletes to maintain discipline and strive for excellence in international competitions.

The Bangladesh women’s hockey team secured a silver medal at the Women’s Asian Games Qualifying Tournament held in Jakarta, Indonesia from April 20 to 30. The national women’s kabaddi team won a bronze medal at the 6th Asian Beach Games in Sanya, China during April 22–30.

Nine countries, including Bangladesh, will compete in the men’s category of the upcoming U-18 Asia Cup Hockey, while eight nations will take part in the women’s event.

Bangladesh’s teams had also performed strongly in the previous edition of the tournament, with the men’s team reaching the semifinals and the women’s team securing a bronze medal.