The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has decided to impose a two-year ban on player Ammad Shakeel Butt. The decision follows reported violations of federation rules and regulations. An official announcement from PHF is expected soon.
PHF President and Secretary Rana Mujahid also called for the removal of the Pakistan Sports Board Director General and CFO. Sources indicated that proposals are under consideration to introduce an ad hoc system in the federation. There are discussions to appoint a high-profile individual as head of the ad hoc committee.
Earlier, Tariq Bugti resigned from his post following complaints by national team players. The resignations came after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif launched an inquiry into the team’s poor performance on their recent tour.
During the tour to Australia, Butt criticized PHF for poor arrangements. Players reportedly faced substandard accommodation in Hobart, Tasmania. They had to wash clothes and dishes due to unpaid hotel charges. Before the tour, players boycotted a training camp over non-payment of daily allowances of $110, their only income without match fees or central contracts.
Pakistan has struggled internationally in field hockey. The national team, once three-time Olympic champions and four-time World Cup winners, is now ranked 14th globally. In the recent Pro League, Pakistan lost all eight matches, including defeats to Australia, Germany, Argentina, and the Netherlands.
In other related news also read PHF Chief Tariq Bugti Resigns After Australia Tour Controversy
PHF now faces significant scrutiny as Pakistan prepares for the upcoming World Cup qualifying round in Egypt next month. The tournament will determine the team’s entry into the World Cup, hosted by the Netherlands and Belgium in August. Officials hope these measures will improve team management and performance.
