Zahid Shareef is a former international hockey player who represented Pakistan for 5 years. In his career, he scored 41 goals playing in 73 matches. He is remembered for his exceptional dribbling skill. He was banned from the game in a controversial manner for 6 months. He retired an immature retirement in 1991.
Early life
Born in Chauburji Rajgarh, Lahore, Shareef developed a keen interest in sports, especially hockey. He has an elder brother and two younger siblings. Known for his tremendous dribbling skill, pinpoint passing and superb acceleration, he represented the prestigious MAO College, where he caught the attention of the PHF scouts.
Career
Shareef represented Pakistan in Junior Hockey World Cup in 1984 in Canada, where his performance went unnoticed; however, he quickly climbed ranks in the Pakistan Hockey Squad. In 1987 after Holland defeated Pakistan in first two of the five-match series, the Dutch, however, lost to National Bank of Pakistan, in which Sharif was instrumental, this led to inclusion in Pakistan squad. His consistent performance in 1988 Champions Trophy in which Pakistan won Silver Medal paved way for selection for 1988 Seoul Olympics. But a dismal showing in Seoul in which Pakistan finished fifth led to backlash from the masses back in Pakistan. However Shareef and Pakistan team were able to lodge a comeback winning a series against India and more importantly Indra Gandhi Gold Cup held in India in 1989. Shareef shone in both these events. However, known for his hot tempered persona on the field, he was banned from every sort of hockey when he misbehaved with a referee for 6 months. He was not able to lodge a comeback since on the international scenario.
Playing style
Shareef was an attacking player, mostly playing either as Center Forward or Inside Left. He was renowned for his dribbling skill and clinical finishing. He also had good passing sense with superb acceleration. Throughout his career he wore shirt number 10 and 16 although his favorite shirt is shirt number 10. He now serves in PIA as Deputy Station Manager at Allama Iqbal International Airport Lahore.
