ISLAMABAD — Pakistan will officially compete in the upcoming FIH Pro League after the federal government approved Rs250 million in funding, a parliamentary committee confirmed Monday. The announcement marks a major opportunity for Pakistan’s hockey team to face the world’s best sides but comes against a backdrop of deepening governance and accountability concerns within the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF).
Government Steps In with Partial Support
The funding decision was disclosed during a meeting of the National Assembly Standing Committee on Inter-Provincial Coordination (IPC), chaired by MNA Mohammad Sanaullah Khan Mastikhel. IPC Secretary Mohyuddin Wani told lawmakers that the Ministry of Finance had cleared the funds to cover a significant portion of expenses for Pakistan’s debut in the international league.
The PHF had requested Rs350 million in total, but the government has asked the federation to secure the remaining Rs100 million through sponsorships. Wani further clarified that the funds will not be handed over directly to the PHF but will instead be managed by the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) to ensure transparency.
Pakistan was extended an invitation to the FIH Pro League after New Zealand — who defeated Pakistan in the Nations Cup final — withdrew from the tournament over financial constraints.
Federation’s Legitimacy Under Scrutiny
Despite the positive funding news, the meeting underscored persistent friction between the PSB and PHF. Several committee members questioned the legality of PHF President Tariq Hussain Bugti’s appointment, which was made by the previous caretaker prime minister. Law ministry and attorney general input has been sought to determine if the appointment was constitutionally valid.
The standing committee also raised concerns over financial irregularities, including allegations of corruption and mismanagement. MNA Shehla Raza highlighted that over 100 audit objections linked to the PHF remain unresolved, urging the Federal Investigation Agency to expedite its probe.
Demands for Transparency Intensify
Bugti has been directed to provide detailed records of PHF finances, including rental property income, unauthorised perks, and administrative expenditures drawn by federation officials. Questions also remain over why the PHF has delayed elections and failed to act on inquiries into its bank accounts.
Following the heated discussions, lawmakers formed a sub-committee led by MNA Sheikh Aftab Ahmed to investigate the PHF’s legal standing and financial practices. The panel will include representatives from the Ministry of Law, IPC, the Attorney General’s office, the PSB, and PHF leadership.
A Chance on the Global Stage, but a Clouded Picture at Home
Pakistan’s inclusion in the Pro League is a rare opportunity for a team that has struggled in recent years to reclaim its historic dominance in hockey. However, the scrutiny on PHF leadership and its internal dysfunction raises questions about the long-term stability of Pakistan’s hockey administration.
Bugti has publicly pledged to provide all requested documents to parliament, but with government oversight intensifying, the Pro League appearance could be overshadowed by governance battles that threaten the federation’s credibility.
