(Spors Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Support for Pakistan Hockey Team’s Participation in Pro Hockey League
LAHORE: On Monday, Federal Interior Minister and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi reassured Pakistan’s hockey team captain, Ammad Butt, of full support for the national team’s involvement in the upcoming Pro Hockey League.
During their meeting, Butt updated Naqvi on the key challenges facing Pakistan hockey, including preparations for the league. Discussions also centered on player welfare and rehabilitation efforts.
Naqvi expressed his commitment to qualifying the national team for the Pro Hockey League, emphasizing that he would actively work to facilitate the team’s participation. He also announced a reward of PKR 1 million per player and assured that any visa-related issues would be addressed promptly.
The PCB’s professional medical team will take care of players’ medical and fitness needs, while the logistics team will ensure the provision of all necessary support and facilities.
Additionally, hockey captain Ammad Butt congratulated Naqvi for receiving the prestigious Nishan-e-Imtiaz.
Earlier this month, the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) made a significant move regarding the Pro Hockey League. They proposed that the government and Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) cover the event’s expenses, totaling PKR 700 million, rather than directly allocating funds to the PHF.
PHF Secretary Rana Mujahid spoke to Geo News, stating that the funds for the Pro League are not essential to be provided by the PHF but should be managed by the PSB. He emphasized that the key priority is Pakistan’s participation in the event, which he believes is crucial for the development of national hockey.
Mujahid also suggested that players’ allowances should be handled directly by the PSB, which should also manage travel and accommodation arrangements for the team.
“Our focus is to improve the national sport and resolve the issues faced by players,” said Rana Mujahid. He further added that participation in the Pro League would not only sharpen players’ skills but also improve Pakistan’s global ranking.
In a related update, PHF President Tariq Bugti revealed that the federation has requested an extension from the International Hockey Federation (FIH) to confirm the national team’s participation in the Pro League. This comes after New Zealand’s withdrawal from the tournament, despite winning the Nations Cup.
The PHF had a deadline of August 12 to notify FIH of their decision regarding participation in the Pro League.
