However, despite this generous financial support, the PHF has come under scrutiny for not submitting auditable vouchers and receipts related to the expenditure of these funds. “The PHF has so far failed to submit any verifiable documentation to substantiate the utilization of government-provided funds,” said the IPC Minister
Ansar M Bhatti
ISLAMABAD, AUG 8 /DNA/ – Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination (IPC) Rana Sanaullah has stated that the Government of Pakistan remains committed to the revival and promotion of hockey in the country, and continues to extend significant financial and administrative support to the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF). However, concerns have been raised over financial mismanagement and lack of transparency within the PHF.
In a written response to queries regarding PHF’s performance and accountability, the IPC Minister revealed that a total of Rs. 119.6 million (Rs. 11 crore 96 lakh) was disbursed to the PHF during the financial years 2023-24 and 2024-25. This substantial support was aimed at revitalizing national hockey, assisting the federation with operational expenses, and ensuring the participation of national teams in international events.
The Minister further informed that air tickets worth Rs. 7 million were also provided by the government to facilitate Pakistan’s participation in the Men’s Nations Cup held in Malaysia. These efforts reflect the government’s intent to restore Pakistan’s former glory in the sport of hockey.
However, despite this generous financial support, the PHF has come under scrutiny for not submitting auditable vouchers and receipts related to the expenditure of these funds. “The PHF has so far failed to submit any verifiable documentation to substantiate the utilization of government-provided funds,” said the IPC Minister.
Adding to the concerns, the Minister disclosed that the players who represented Pakistan in the Nations Cup were not paid any daily allowances, despite the availability of sufficient funds. In fact, the PHF itself acknowledged in an official correspondence that it did not pay the players’ allowances even though adequate resources were available.
“This is a serious lapse in financial responsibility,” said the IPC Minister, noting that the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) issued a letter to PHF on June 20, 2025, demanding a clear explanation for the non-payment to players. Instead of providing a response or justification, the PHF requested PSB to make the allowance payments on their behalf, which was categorically refused.
The Minister clarified that it is solely the PHF’s responsibility to pay the players, and such requests reflect poor financial management and misplaced priorities within the federation. “The delay in disbursement of players’ allowances is entirely due to the PHF’s internal mismanagement and financial irregularities,” the Minister added.
The government has reiterated that while it will continue to support national sports federations, accountability and transparency are non-negotiable. As part of a broader effort to ensure proper utilization of public funds, the IPC Ministry is closely monitoring the activities of all sports bodies receiving government aid.
The controversy surrounding the PHF’s financial practices has once again highlighted the urgent need for internal reforms and professional administration in sports organizations. For hockey to regain its place as the national pride of Pakistan, systemic governance issues must be addressed alongside athletic development.=DNA
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