(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
PHF President Rejects Indian Media Claims About Pakistan’s Withdrawal from Asia Cup
LAHORE – President of the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF), Tariq Bugti, has strongly dismissed recent reports by Indian media suggesting that Pakistan will not participate in the upcoming Hockey Asia Cup scheduled to take place in Jharkhand, India from August 27 to September 7.
📰 “No Official Decision Yet,” Says PHF
Speaking to the media on Thursday, Bugti clarified that no official decision regarding Pakistan’s participation has been made. He emphasized that the final decision rests solely with the Government of Pakistan, and the PHF will act in accordance with whatever directive is issued.
“No talks have been held regarding participating or not participating in the Asia Cup. It’s not PHF’s decision — it’s the government’s. Whatever decision the Government of Pakistan makes, we will follow,” Bugti stated.
❌ No Contact with Hockey India
Addressing rumors of alleged communication between the PHF and Hockey India, Bugti firmly denied any such interaction.
“There was no communication with Hockey India in the past, nor has there been any now. Our correspondence is strictly with the Asian Hockey Federation, not with Hockey India,” he added.
🇧🇩 No Official Word on Bangladesh’s Inclusion
Bugti also responded to claims that Bangladesh is being invited to replace Pakistan in the tournament. He stated that no such communication has been received by the PHF.
“Hockey India can say whatever it wants and invite whoever it wants. We are unaware of any invitation extended to Bangladesh in our place,” he said.
✅ Pakistan Awaiting Government Decision
The PHF has reiterated that it is prepared and willing to participate, but will wait for a formal decision from the Pakistani government before proceeding.
