In a strong and clear message, PHF President Mir Tariq Hussain Bugti stated: “We are committed to restoring Pakistan hockey to its former glory. Corruption, favoritism, and moral decay will no longer be tolerated. This decision is just the beginning of a series of reforms to ensure transparency and merit-based opportunities.”
DNA
ISLAMABAD: In a landmark decision that could reshape the future of Pakistan’s national sport, the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has imposed a one-year ban on Olympian Anjum Saeed. The decision was made by PHF President Mir Tariq Hussain Bugti, marking a significant shift toward accountability, transparency, and meritocracy within the federation.
The ban on Anjum Saeed is not just about disciplinary action against one individual; it’s a message to the entire hockey fraternity. The PHF has taken this step to cleanse the system of entrenched practices that have long plagued the sport, such as favoritism, nepotism, and misuse of authority. This action signals the beginning of a new era of reforms in Pakistan hockey.
The PHF’s decision comes after an internal inquiry revealed serious violations by Anjum Saeed. The specific charges include:
Receiving double daily allowances, an unethical financial practice. Favoritism in team selections and umpiring, giving undue preference to certain players and officials. Nepotism, promoting associates and relatives within the system. Blatant violation of PHF regulations, undermining the federation’s credibility and integrity.
These findings represent a pattern of behavior that contradicts the core values of fairness, professionalism, and national interest.
In a strong and clear message, PHF President Mir Tariq Hussain Bugti stated: “We are committed to restoring Pakistan hockey to its former glory. Corruption, favoritism, and moral decay will no longer be tolerated. This decision is just the beginning of a series of reforms to ensure transparency and merit-based opportunities.”
His statement underscores a resolve to purge the federation of malpractices and create a level playing field for all.
The response from players, coaches, and fans has been overwhelmingly positive: Young players welcomed the decision, calling it a “clean-up move” for the sport.
Coaches and support staff appreciated the federation’s willingness to take tough action. On social media, hashtags like #HockeyJustice, #CleanHockey, and #MeritInPakistanHockey trended widely, indicating widespread support for the decision.
This outpouring of public and professional support shows a collective desire for change and accountability in the sport.
With this bold step, the PHF has set the tone for a new chapter in Pakistan hockey: Merit-based selection will be the new standard. Transparency in operations will be enforced. Young and deserving talent will be given priority and a platform to shine.
The ban on Anjum Saeed serves as a warning to all officials and stakeholders that integrity and professionalism will be non-negotiable going forward. If Pakistan hockey is to reclaim its place on the world stage, such reforms are not only necessary—they are urgent.
As the PHF continues its journey of reform, the hope is that Pakistan’s golden era of hockey can be revived, with discipline, fairness, and dedication at its core.
