Pakistan’s long-awaited return to the FIH Pro League has done little to ease tensions between the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) and the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF). Instead, the national sports regulator has tightened its grip, insisting on detailed financial accountability before approving funding for the upcoming tournament.
Funding Standoff: PSB Caps Support, Seeks Detailed Plan
The PSB has given the PHF three days to submit a complete roadmap for the Pro League campaign before releasing the Rs250 million it has agreed to provide. The PHF had initially requested Rs350 million but has now been told to find additional sponsorships or private backers to cover the shortfall.
The sports board has also demanded a full breakdown of expenditures, including team travel plans, training camps, administrative expenses, and logistics. Officials argue that stricter oversight is necessary, pointing to years of mismanagement they believe contributed to Pakistan hockey’s dramatic decline from its former glory.
Pakistan Returns to Elite Competition Under Pressure
Pakistan earned a spot in the upcoming Pro League season after New Zealand withdrew due to financial struggles, but the invitation comes with immense pressure. The team will now face some of the world’s strongest sides, including Australia, Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands.
While the competition offers Pakistan a rare platform to re-establish itself in international hockey, the timing is far from ideal. Financial instability, internal disputes, and administrative challenges continue to weigh heavily on preparations.
A Test Beyond the Field
For the PHF, this campaign is about more than just results—it’s a chance to prove it can operate with transparency and restore credibility to a sport once synonymous with Pakistani sporting pride. Whether the federation meets PSB’s demands may determine not only its ability to compete effectively but also the future of government support for hockey.
With the deadline looming, all eyes are now on the PHF’s next move.
