Interim president reverses suspension of national captain; vows restructured management, elections for new leadership
Pakistan hockey team players celebrate after scoring during their emphatic 7-2 win over Malaysia in the Sultan of Johor Cup match held in Johor Bahru on Saturday. Photo: X
ISLAMABAD:
Just a day after a two-year ban was slapped on national hockey team captain Ammad Butt, Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) Interim President Mohyuddin Wani announced Friday that the suspension had been lifted – signalling a reversal in tone as the federation moves to steady itself following recent turbulence.
The ban, imposed with PHF chief Tariq Bugti’s resignation, had drawn swift criticism. Bugti stepped down after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif ordered an inquiry into the team’s tour of Australia, where players were left scrambling for accommodation in Hobart and forced to cook their own meals and wash dishes at a guest house after the federation failed to fund a proper hotel.
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Butt had been at the forefront of the backlash, publicly slamming the PHF for the conditions players endured and for months of delayed allowances. With Wani now at the helm on an interim basis, the federation appears to be turning the page. “I am hopeful for the revival and strengthening of hockey,” Wani said, adding that players should focus entirely on training and matches.
IPC federal secretary echoed the sentiment, announcing that the federation’s management would be reorganised from the ground up. Wani also confirmed that elections for new permanent leadership would be held, with transparency and justice prioritised in all decisions.
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“All institutions are aligned for the revival of the national sport,” Wani said, noting that improved governance and partnerships with the private sector would ensure better financial support for players. He addedc further that, “the greatness of hockey will have to be restored.”
