Pakistan hockey in turmoil as players await due payment from authorities: Report

Pakistan's national hockey players are grappling with financial instability due to pending payments worth lakhs, affecting their ability to train and compete at the highest level. Dues have not been cleared for domestic training camps, the Bangladesh tour, and participation in the FIH Pro League, leaving many athletes uncertain about their future in the sport.

The issue of unpaid dues by the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has persisted for years. At one point, the PHF's financial crisis led to a halt in monthly retainer payments to select national players, compounding the financial pressures athletes already face.

According to several players, the lack of timely payments has added a significant burden. Many rely on these allowances to cover expenses associated with training and international representation. The ongoing delays have led to mounting frustration among the squad.

"Before we went for the FIH Pro League to Argentina we were assured all our dues would be cleared as the



government had given the Hockey Federation enough funds. But even returning from this event our money remains outstanding," said a player to PTI.

"The total amount is in lakhs and we are not cricket players these daily allowance amounts mean a lot for us. Not all of us are lucky enough to even secure a contract to play in some foreign league and make some money," he said.

Pakistan captain Ammad Shakeel Butt addressed the impact of these challenges and highlighted that most players depend on departmental jobs to continue playing the sport.

"Without financial security no sportsman can focus completely on his chosen career," he said.

"But when we play for the national team and attend camps and go for international events that is the income which allows to have financial security savings."

Another national player suggested that the authorities should introduce a professional hockey league, similar to other countries, to provide financial stability.