The participation of Pakistan’s national hockey team in the upcoming FIH Pro Hockey League—set to begin in February next year—remains hanging in the balance due to severe financial constraints. While the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has formally expressed its intention to participate, the final decision hinges on securing the necessary $2.5 million USD (approximately PKR 700 million) in funding.
Conditional Commitment from Pakistan
According to inside sources, the PHF has communicated its preliminary interest in the tournament to the International Hockey Federation (FIH). However, Pakistan has not yet provided a firm commitment, with the deadline to confirm participation set for this Friday. Given the urgency of the situation, PHF has requested an additional week from FIH to obtain a financial lifeline from the government.
Without these funds, the team risks forfeiting its place in the elite global competition, which would mark yet another setback for Pakistan’s once-dominant hockey legacy.
High-Stakes Budget and Global Commitments
The upcoming Pro League season, which runs from February to March, requires Pakistan to play 16 matches—both home and abroad. The proposed schedule includes hosting matches in Lahore, while away fixtures would require extensive international travel to countries like Australia, Argentina, various parts of Europe, and the UK.
The PHF must not only gather the required funding but also finalize travel logistics, secure visas, and coordinate with host nations. These logistical elements, along with mutual consent between the FIH and participating teams, are essential components that need to be submitted well in advance to confirm the team’s participation.
Official Statements and Pleas for Support
Speaking to the media in Islamabad on Thursday, Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) Director General Yasir Pirzada acknowledged the financial crisis and confirmed the need for $2.5 million USD to proceed with the league. He emphasized the importance of hockey as Pakistan’s national sport and assured that the issue will be brought to the attention of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
We recognize hockey as a symbol of our national pride. This is not just about sports—it’s about our identity and reputation on the global stage,Pirzada stated.
Meanwhile, PHF Secretary Rana Mujahid Ali Khan shared the federation’s concern over the mounting pressure. The cost of participating in this high-profile league is immense. We’ve kept FIH in the loop and have requested an extension. We are hopeful the government and even Chief of Army Staff, General Asim Munir, will step in to support the national sport,he said.
Grave Consequences for Withdrawal
Failing to participate, particularly after signaling intent and receiving any form of institutional support, could have dire consequences. According to officials, Pakistan may face heavy financial penalties, suspension from future events, and a potential ban from the Pro League altogether. Such punitive action would not only damage Pakistan’s hockey stature but also diminish its influence in international federations.
Hope for a Revival
The current financial dilemma underscores a larger issue plaguing Pakistani sports: a lack of sustainable funding and prioritization for disciplines outside of cricket. Once a world leader in field hockey with multiple Olympic and World Cup victories, Pakistan now finds itself struggling to secure basic participation in international tournaments.
Despite this, there remains cautious optimism within the PHF. The urgency of the situation has sparked renewed calls for structural reform and long-term investment in hockey, including grassroots development, infrastructure upgrades, and international exposure for players.
If the required funding is secured in time, Pakistan’s participation in the Pro League could mark a turning point—not just for the team, but for the revival of hockey nationwide.
In the meantime, all eyes are on Islamabad, where a decision could determine whether Pakistan hockey continues its slow decline or takes a bold step back onto the world stage.
