Naseer Bundha hockey ground charges will be reviewed: Pirzada

Rs 75 crores needed for pro League: DG PSB

DNA

ISLAMABAD:  The Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) has emphasized the financial hurdles facing the revival of professional hockey in the country, with Director General Yasser Pirzada stating that $2.5 million is required to organize the Pro Hockey League. The announcement came during a media briefing where Pirzada discussed the future of hockey and the need for greater investment in the national sport.

To ease financial burdens on hockey stakeholders, Pirzada announced that the PSB would review charges for the Naseer Banda Hockey Stadium. Additionally, the board plans to reassess fee structures for hockey clubs to ensure sustainability.

Pirzada confirmed that the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) will submit a formal proposal regarding the Pro League, which aims to elevate the sport’s standard and provide players with competitive exposure. However, he acknowledged that funding remains a major challenge.

“The expenses for the Pro League are very high, and securing financial backing is crucial,” he said. “We will take this matter to the government and the Prime Minister for support.”

The DG PSB pointed out the stark disparity in attention and resources between hockey and cricket in Pakistan. “Cricket cannot even be compared to any other sport in terms of funding and popularity,” Pirzada stated. “Hockey is our national game and deserves priority.”

He stressed that while cricket dominates the sports landscape, hockey must not be neglected, especially given its historical significance for Pakistan.

With the PHF struggling to meet international commitments and domestic league requirements, Pirzada assured that the matter would be presented at the highest level. “We will bring PHF’s concerns before the Prime Minister and the federal government,” he said, expressing hope for a favorable response.

The press conference underscored the urgent need for financial and administrative support to revive Pakistan’s hockey glory. While the Pro League remains an ambitious project, its success hinges on government backing and corporate sponsorship.

As the PSB and PHF work towards solutions, fans await concrete steps to restore hockey’s prestige in a country that once dominated the sport on the world stage.