 "Financial problems have forced Pakistan Hockey to play a waiting game over Pro League participation. Image: PTI")
Pakistan’s participation in the upcoming prestigious FIH Pro League is still a mystery as the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has been unable to manage the required financial funds so far, forcing them to ask for a new deadline by the International Hockey Federation (FIH).
As per reports, the Pakistan hockey team needs approximately $2.5 million (700 million Pakistani Rupees) to complete their campaign in the 2025-26 FIH Pro League. Initially, New Zealand were to take part in the Pro League as the new team after winning the 2024-25 FIH Nations Cup, but their withdrawal opened the door for runner-up Pakistan.
Pakistan Hockey was initially given a deadline till 12 August to confirm their participation, but due to poor financial status, they were forced to approach Pakistan Sports Board , and the matter eventually also reached Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The deadline was later extended to 20 August as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) reportedly entered the picture with the possibility of providing financial help .
However, nothing concrete has been arranged so far. The situation is the same as Pakistan Hockey is still struggling to arrange funds, as per a report in the Pro Pakistani.
Pakistan Hockey seeks another extension for Pro League
PHF secretary Rana Mujahid on Wednesday said that they have asked for another extension as they keep working on arranging the funds for the Pakistan hockey team, as per Pro Pakistani.
“We have written to the FIH for additional time, as some details regarding the funding are still being worked out with the federal government,” Mujahid told reporters in Lahore. “The process is moving in the right direction, and we are hopeful that in the coming days Pakistan will be able to confirm its participation.”
The report further added that the money would come from the government, but it would not be deposited in PHF’s account. The government will manage major spending and the travel of PHF officials would have to be managed by the hockey federation itself.
PHF has been in the past accused of misusing government funds between 2008 and 2022 by the Auditor General of Pakistan.