ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has appointed Abu Bakar as the new captain of the Pakistan men’s national hockey team, replacing Ammad Butt ahead of a busy international schedule, including the 2026 FIH Hockey Men’s World Cup.
The decision was made on the recommendation of the PHF’s Professional Development Committee and approved by PHF President Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani.
PHF approves leadership change
According to a PHF statement, the recommendation was put forward by the Professional Development Committee, comprising former hockey greats Islahuddin Siddiqui and Hassan Sardar.
The federation said Abu Bakar will lead the national team in upcoming international competitions as Pakistan aims to rebuild after a difficult season.
Ammad Butt remains part of national squad
The PHF thanked outgoing captain Ammad Butt for his leadership and services to Pakistan hockey, confirming that he will continue to represent the national team as a senior player.
The federation expressed confidence that Abu Bakar’s leadership, combined with the experience of senior players and the energy of younger squad members, would help Pakistan become a more competitive side.
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Appointment follows difficult FIH Pro League campaign
The captaincy change comes after Pakistan endured a disappointing FIH Pro League 2026 campaign.
Pakistan finished at the bottom of the nine-team standings after losing all 16 matches, playing each of the other eight teams twice. The national side ended the tournament without a single victory and recorded a goal difference of -57.
Pakistan qualified for World Cup after eight-year wait
Despite their struggles in the Pro League, Pakistan secured qualification for the 2026 FIH Hockey Men’s World Cup earlier this year by defeating Japan 4-3 in the semi-finals of the World Cup Qualifiers held in Ismailia, Egypt, on March 6, 2026.
The victory ended Pakistan’s eight-year absence from hockey’s biggest global tournament.
The 2026 FIH Hockey Men’s World Cup will be held from August 14 to August 30, with Belgium and the Netherlands serving as co-hosts.
