Pakistan Hockey Captain Abu Bakar Mahmood Signs With Melbourne Cobras
Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail
Pakistan hockey captain Abu Bakar Mahmood has signed with the Melbourne Cobras for Season 6 of Australia’s Hockey One League.
The defender and drag-flick specialist will join the Australian club after completing Pakistan’s campaign at the Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, where he is currently leading the national team.
Melbourne Cobras Confirm Signing
The Melbourne Cobras announced Mahmood’s arrival through their official Instagram account, describing him as the latest addition to the club’s growing South Asian representation.
The franchise is continuing to strengthen its squad ahead of the upcoming Hockey One League season.
Mahmood’s International Career
Abu Bakar Mahmood has been part of Pakistan’s international hockey setup for several years.
He made his international debut for Pakistan’s Under-21 team in 2014 and remained with the side for three years. During that period, he helped Pakistan secure two silver medals.
Mahmood was promoted to the senior national team in 2017 and has since represented Pakistan in several major international competitions.
Earlier this year, he was appointed Pakistan’s captain ahead of the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup and led the national side during the tournament.
New Opportunity in Australia
His move to the Hockey One League will provide Mahmood with an opportunity to play alongside and compete against experienced domestic and international players.
The Melbourne Cobras are among the newest franchises in the competition, becoming the eighth team in Hockey One after receiving a league license earlier this year.
Hockey One League Season 6
Hockey One is Australia’s national club hockey competition, featuring leading Australian players and international recruits across both men’s and women’s divisions.
The sixth season is scheduled to take place from October 8 to December 6, with Mahmood set to join the Melbourne Cobras following Pakistan’s Asian Games campaign.
