The Pakistan men’s national hockey team returned home from the second leg of the FIH Pro League in Hobart, Australia. They lost all their matches and finished bottom of their group. Criticism grew after reports emerged of financial and logistical mismanagement. This prompted Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to launch an investigation.
Allegations of Mismanagement
The Pakistan men’s national hockey team lost all four matches in the second leg against Germany and Australia, ending the tournament winless across both legs. Media reports highlighted several logistical failings, including poor accommodation, delayed arrivals, and limited access to training facilities. While some blame has been directed at the PHF, these issues were primarily the PSB’s responsibility and may have affected the team’s preparation.
PHF Places Responsibility on PSB
PHF President Tariq Hussain Bugti said the Senate Standing Committee on Sports had delegated all financial and logistical matters to the PSB. This included hotel bookings, travel, allowances, and visas. “We (PHF) accept the Senate Committee’s directive and will not interfere with the PSB’s operations. Our focus is to have the team able to compete in these important events,” stated Bugti.
The PSB says it will defend its role, according to Rana Nasrullah of the PSB. He further stated that the team had more than enough money, including USD 1,650 that is provided to each player for personal expenses. “If funds are available and the team had enough money to cover travel costs, why were hotel arrangements mismanaged? “There was no adequate cooking system in the hotel, forcing players to prepare their own meals.”
Pending Payments and Player Discontent
Further reports indicate pending accommodation payments of USD 3,750 from the first leg in Argentina. Sources added that upon arrival in Hobart, hotel rates had increased, leaving players in shared or substandard rooms, with some staying in a guest house. Despite the difficulties, Pakistan captain Emmad Butt dismissed claims that the team was left without accommodation.
Discontent also surfaced regarding daily allowances. Players received USD 40 from the PSB, significantly lower than the USD 100 specified in PHF regulations.
Prime Minister Orders Inquiry
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has ordered an inquiry and promised immediate action against those responsible. Federal Sports Minister Rana Sanaullah expressed serious concern. He warned that mismanagement harming Pakistan’s sporting reputation will not be tolerated. An inquiry committee has been formed, but its members have not been disclosed. An inquiry committee has been formed, although details of its composition remain undisclosed.
Observers have raised concerns that a probe led solely by the PSB or ministry officials may lack impartiality, suggesting that a neutral body would better ensure transparency and accountability. Meanwhile, PHF officials indicated that players may hold a press conference in Lahore to clarify the circumstances of their trip.
The incident has once again highlighted longstanding issues in Pakistan hockey’s administration, underscoring the need for improved oversight to prevent logistical failures from overshadowing the sport itself.
