Pakistan is a country where sports are more than just games — they are a deep-rooted part of everyday life, national pride, and cultural heritage. Among the Most Played Sports in Pakistan: From Cricket to Kabaddi, each carries its own legacy and loyal following. While cricket leads with unmatched enthusiasm, sports like football, hockey, and traditional games such as kabaddi continue to engage communities across the nation. From urban playgrounds to rural fields, the Most Played Sports in Pakistan: From Cricket to Kabaddi reflect the country’s passion, unity, and athletic diversity. Whether it’s street matches in Karachi or kabaddi tournaments in Punjab, sports remain a vibrant part of Pakistan’s identity and youth development.
1. Cricket – Leading the Top Sports Played in Pakistan
Cricket tops the list of top sports played in Pakistan. It’s deeply embedded in the nation’s identity, uniting people from all walks of life. From street cricket in cities to international matches in stadiums, the sport is followed with unmatched passion.
Pakistan has produced global cricketing legends such as Imran Khan, Wasim Akram, Shahid Afridi, and Babar Azam. The success of the PSL has further boosted cricket’s popularity, giving young talent a platform to shine and fans a reason to cheer year-round.
Key Achievements:
- Hosts the Pakistan Super League (PSL), one of the fastest-growing T20 leagues in the world.
- Pakistan won the ICC Cricket World Cup in 1992, led by Imran Khan.
- Also secured the ICC T20 World Cup in 2009.
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2. Football – A Fast-Rising Game in the Top Sports Played in Pakistan
Football (soccer) is the second most played sport in Pakistan, especially in regions like Lyari (Karachi), Chaman, and Quetta. While the national football team has faced administrative setbacks, the sport remains a favorite among the youth.
Street football culture is alive and well, and the rise of local football clubs and grassroots programs has sparked new hope for the sport’s development in the country.
3. Field Hockey – A Historic Favorite Among Top Sports Played in Pakistan
Field hockey was once the national sport of Pakistan, bringing home three Olympic gold medals and four World Cup titles. During the 20th century, Pakistan dominated international hockey, with stars like Samiullah Khan and Shahbaz Ahmed.
Although its popularity has declined due to limited funding and management challenges, field hockey still holds a special place in the country’s sports history and remains an area of potential revival.
Major Achievements:
- Three Olympic gold medals (1960, 1968, 1984)
- Four Hockey World Cup titles (1971, 1978, 1982, 1994) — the most by any country
Top players: Shahbaz Ahmed, Hassan Sardar, Samiullah Khan
4. Boxing – A Grassroots Powerhouse in the Top Sports Played in Pakistan
Boxing is one of the most played sports in specific communities like Lyari, where it serves as both a passion and a path to opportunity. Pakistan has produced internationally recognized boxers like Muhammad Waseem.
With growing local boxing clubs and exposure to global competitions, the sport is on the rise.
5. Wrestling (Kushti) – A Traditional Leader in the Top Sports Played in Pakistan
Kushti, or traditional wrestling, remains popular in rural Punjab and is often practiced in local arenas called akharas. This form of wrestling has been part of Pakistani culture for generations and is still celebrated in local tournaments and festivals.
Modern wrestling, including freestyle and Greco-Roman, is also gaining momentum, with national-level events held regularly by the Pakistan Wrestling Federation.
6. Kabaddi – A Cultural and Competitive Entry in the Top Sports Played in Pakistan
Kabaddi is a traditional sport deeply embedded in rural Pakistani culture, especially in Punjab. Recognized as one of the most played sports in the country, Pakistan is ranked among the top kabaddi nations globally and takes pride in competing at international levels.
Its unique blend of strength, agility, and teamwork has helped kabaddi remain one of the most played sports in schools, villages, and professional leagues across Pakistan.
7. Badminton and Table Tennis –Fast-Paced Indoor Games in the Top Sports Played in Pakistan
Badminton and table tennis are fast-paced indoor games widely played in schools, colleges, and recreational clubs across urban Pakistan. While they may not hold global dominance, both remain among the most played sports in Pakistan due to their accessibility, fun nature, and appeal for fitness enthusiasts of all ages.
8. Athletics – Track and Field Events Among the Top Sports Played in Pakistan
Athletics, particularly track and field events, is steadily gaining popularity in Pakistan. With increasing participation from schools, universities, and armed forces institutions, the sport is evolving into one of the most played sports in the country. As training programs expand and competitions become more frequent, athletics is carving out a stronger presence in Pakistan’s sporting landscape.
9. E-Sports – A Digital Revolution in the Top Sports Played in Pakistan
E-sports has rapidly risen to become one of the most played sports among tech-savvy Pakistani youth. Games like PUBG, Valorant, and CS:GO have developed massive followings through streamers and local tournaments.
With better internet access and a booming online culture, e-sports are reshaping Pakistan’s sporting identity