The Pakistan High Commissioner Wajid Shamsul Hasan has announced a showcase match between a Pakistan International XI and Blue Square South side Woking FC to take place next month.
The aim of the showcase match, which will take place at Woking's Kingfield ground on Sunday 1st August, is to demonstrate globally that Pakistan has another side to it other than the negative one often portrayed in the media.
Pakistani football fans are encouraged to come and show their support and wave their Pakistani flags in the stadium. It will be rare opportunity to see the next generation of Pakistani football players displaying their silky skills.
Hasan explained “I endorsed the Pakistan International XI tour with its vision to promote Pakistan through this wonderful game. I hope it grows stronger and goes beyond the 90 minutes of a match to develop football in Pakistan and set out a roadmap for those living here and wishing to pursue a professional football career in the United Kingdom”
'Recognition'
British Asian boxer Amir Khan has given the event his backing, explaining: “I grew up in this country watching, playing and supporting football just like every other youngster, It is great to see Pakistan getting the recognition playing football in England and this will definitely put Pakistan on the world stage of international football”.
The Rt. Hon Baroness Warsi, Cabinet Minister without Portfolio and Chair of the Conservative Party has pledged her support for the event, stating: "This tour provides a great opportunity for Pakistani football talent to showcase itself to leagues in the United Kingdom and beyond."
TouchSky Sports is working with the Pakistan Football Academy, XI (Pakistan national league rights holders), the KASB Foundation, Geo Super League and Karachi United FC join together for the Pakistan International XI to develop football at grassroots level in Pakistan.
The collective vision is to develop a football infrastructure in Pakistan which will be supported by the raw talent of footballers from abroad.
Cohesion
This will encourage greater community cohesion and improve the perception of Pakistanis in football and create more role models. UK born citizens of Pakistani origin are encouraged to come forward and talk to the organisers.
TouchSky Sports is also aiming to showcase to managers and scouts that Pakistani players have something to offer and they should be considered seriously in professional football leagues globally.
Woking FC and TouchSky Sports have embarked on a journey with global partners to make this vision into a reality and help Pakistanis with an interest in football either in England or Pakistan to realise their potential.
For more information, or to purchase tickets for the match, please call 01483 901 515 or visit www.tsspakistaninternationalxi.co.uk
