LAHORE: The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) is grappling with a severe financial crisis, leaving coaches of both the senior and junior national teams with unpaid dues stretching back nearly eight years. Despite reports that players’ daily allowances have been cleared, the coaching staff remains deprived of their salaries due to negligence by former officials.
Sources suggest that the affected coaches are considering a joint press conference after Eid-ul-Fitr to formally demand their payments. In response to the mounting crisis, Interim President Rana Mujahid Ali has announced a five-year financial audit, with plans to present the findings to the Auditor General of Pakistan.
The financial strain extends beyond coaching staff, as PHF employees have reportedly not been paid their salaries for the period between September and December 2023. Despite these challenges, preparations for the third phase of the FIH Pro Hockey League continue, with a national camp scheduled to begin after Eid.
Meanwhile, a new selection committee is expected to be announced soon, following consultations between Management Committee Chairmen Islahuddin and Hassan Sardar.
The unfolding situation highlights both the administrative struggles within PHF and the resilience of Pakistan hockey as it continues to prepare for international commitments despite financial uncertainty.
