In a dramatic turn of events, Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) President Tariq Bugti resigned, citing mismanagement and financial delays by the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) that, according to him, severely affected the national team during its recent tour of Australia.
Funding Issues and Allegations of Mismanagement
Bugti, speaking at a press conference, accused the PSB of failing to release funds on time, which created significant logistical challenges for the team. The federation reportedly did not have sufficient financial resources to independently cover travel, accommodation, and other expenses for the FIH Pro League tour.
“Despite directives from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the PSB did not provide funds when needed, creating serious difficulties for our players,” Bugti said.
He added that hotel payments in Australia were delayed, and his personal efforts to expedite the process were met with a response that the funds could take up to two months to be released. Bugti appealed to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff Asim Munir to establish a committee to investigate the matter.
Captain Ammad Shakeel Butt Banned
In a related development, Bugti announced a two-year ban on team captain Ammad Shakeel Butt, accusing him of threatening fellow players and orchestrating a campaign against PHF management. The federation had decided a day earlier to initiate disciplinary proceedings against Butt for alleged misconduct.
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Inquiry Committee Findings
The Prime Minister’s adviser on Inter-Provincial Coordination, Rana Sanaullah, confirmed that a three-member inquiry committee formed by the PSB had completed its investigation and submitted its report. Sources indicate that the findings hold the PHF accountable for lapses during the tour.
Controversy During Australia Tour
The controversy came to light after videos circulated on social media showing players living in substandard conditions during the Australian tour. Reports highlighted inadequate accommodation and poor facilities, raising concerns about the treatment of the national team.
Captain Ammad Shakeel Butt corroborated the troubling reports, saying players were subjected to tasks unfit for professional athletes. He described a situation where players had to clean kitchens, wash dishes, launder their own clothes, and scrub washrooms before attending training sessions and matches.
This episode has brought the PHF under intense scrutiny, with the resignation of its president and disciplinary measures against the captain highlighting deep organizational challenges within Pakistan’s national hockey framework.
The incident underscores the urgent need for better planning, timely funding, and professional management to ensure that national athletes can compete internationally under appropriate conditions.
