(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Pakistan Hockey Captain Ammad Butt Declines PSB Luncheon Over Inadequate Travel Allowance
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan hockey team captain Ammad Butt has turned down an invitation to a luncheon hosted by the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB), citing insufficient travel compensation as the reason behind his decision.
The luncheon was organized to celebrate the achievements of Pakistani athletes across various sports, following recent international competitions. However, Ammad Butt — a key figure in Pakistan’s resurgence in international hockey — opted out, stating that the travel allowance of Rs5,600 offered to him was not even enough to cover toll charges, let alone the costs of transportation or accommodation.
The event had invited six members of the national hockey squad, including Sufyan Khan, Rana Waheed, Abdullah, Muneeb ur Rehman, and Hannan Shahid, along with other celebrated athletes such as javelin star Arshad Nadeem and weightlifter Nooh Dastgir Butt.
Ammad Butt’s decision has once again highlighted the challenges faced by national athletes, particularly in terms of financial support and institutional recognition. The hockey team recently impressed fans and critics alike by reaching the final of the FIH Nations Cup in Malaysia, marking their first appearance in a major final in over a decade.
Despite falling to New Zealand 6-2 in the final, the Green Shirts were widely praised for their spirited performance and renewed energy. Ammad Butt described the silver medal as a sign of hope for Pakistan hockey’s revival.
However, this latest episode underscores the need for more consistent and respectful support for athletes, especially those representing the nation on major international platforms.
