If hockey is witnessing a decline, the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) also shares a significant portion of the responsibility. Recently, the PSB increased the fees for using hockey grounds by a staggering 300 percent. This steep hike has made it financially impossible for many local clubs and grassroots teams to access these essential facilities
Ansar M Bhatti
ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) is currently embroiled in a financial controversy following reports of delayed daily allowance payments to national hockey players. The issue has prompted swift action from the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB), which has intensified its oversight of the federation’s financial affairs, raising concerns about transparency and accountability within the PHF.
Players of the national hockey team have reportedly faced significant delays in receiving their daily allowances, a matter that has caused unrest among athletes and stirred criticism from sports authorities. The daily allowance, a crucial support for players during training camps and tournaments, is seen as an essential part of their livelihood and motivation.
In response to the growing concerns, the Pakistan Sports Board has taken decisive measures to investigate the matter. PSB officials have demanded a comprehensive report from the PHF on the current status of daily allowance payments and have emphasized the need for immediate resolution to avoid further disruptions in the players’ preparations.
Moreover, the PSB has sought a full record of the federation’s foreign tours, including details of officials who accompanied the team, as well as a complete account of the funding allocated for these trips. This move is aimed at scrutinizing the federation’s expenditures and ensuring that public funds are used appropriately.
Beyond the financial irregularities, the Sports Board has raised objections regarding the number and nature of foreign tours undertaken by PHF officials. The PSB has also questioned the operations of the PHF’s camp office in Islamabad, pointing to concerns about its management and expenses.
In a stern directive, the PSB has ordered the PHF to submit its bank statements for the past six months without delay. The federation is also required to provide a detailed record of all grants received from the government and the manner in which these funds have been utilized.
These demands highlight the increasing pressure on the PHF to demonstrate financial transparency and justify its expenditure, especially in light of the allegations surrounding the delayed payments to players.
PHF President Tariq Bugti has been called upon to explain the alleged irregularities in financial management. PSB officials have reportedly expressed serious dissatisfaction with what they describe as a lack of transparency in the federation’s financial dealings under his leadership.
Questions have been raised about where the government funds were spent if players have not been receiving their rightful allowances. The PSB’s interrogation of these issues points to a broader demand for accountability within the sports administration.
To ensure a thorough investigation, the PSB has insisted that the PHF present a complete record of all its operational and grant accounts. This includes detailed documentation of expenditures, receipts, and audits related to both routine operations and special grants.
The unfolding financial controversy within the PHF comes at a critical time for Pakistan hockey, which is striving to regain its former glory on the international stage. Financial mismanagement and administrative disputes threaten to derail efforts aimed at rebuilding the sport’s infrastructure and nurturing new talent.
Athletes and fans alike have expressed frustration over the federation’s inability to provide timely payments and maintain transparent governance. The situation underscores the urgent need for reforms and stronger oversight mechanisms within Pakistan’s hockey administration.
The Pakistan Sports Board’s assertive approach signals a commitment to restoring integrity and accountability within the Pakistan Hockey Federation. As investigations continue, all eyes remain on the PHF leadership to resolve the financial issues promptly and ensure that players receive their due support.
The future of Pakistan hockey depends on transparent governance and effective management of resources. It is imperative that the PHF addresses these challenges head-on to safeguard the interests of the players and the sport at large.
If hockey is witnessing a decline, the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) also shares a significant portion of the responsibility. Recently, the PSB increased the fees for using hockey grounds by a staggering 300 percent. This steep hike has made it financially impossible for many local clubs and grassroots teams to access these essential facilities. As a result, the hockey grounds are now underutilized, leading to deterioration and wear and tear due to neglect.
Local clubs, which have historically been the backbone of nurturing young talent and sustaining the sport at the community level, are unable to afford the exorbitant fees imposed by the PSB. This situation not only stifles the growth of hockey at the grassroots but also disrupts the pipeline for developing future national players.
The lack of accessible and affordable facilities further demotivates players and coaches, contributing to the overall decline of hockey standards in the country. For a sport with such a rich legacy in Pakistan, this neglect could have long-term damaging consequences.
To revive hockey, it is imperative that the PSB reconsider its policies regarding ground fees. Providing affordable access to facilities for local clubs is crucial to promoting widespread participation, improving player development, and ultimately restoring Pakistan’s standing in international hockey.
