The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) is currently grappling with a severe internal crisis as tensions between players and the federation have intensified over the issue of unpaid daily allowances. The situation has reached a boiling point, with senior government officials expressing dissatisfaction with PHF leadership, and players threatening to boycott upcoming tournaments and training camps if their dues are not settled promptly.
According to sources, the players are increasingly frustrated with what they describe as the PHF’s failure to fulfill financial commitments, including unpaid daily allowances for recent tournaments and camps. Despite their repeated requests, the federation has yet to resolve the issue, citing a lack of budget and financial resources.
Government Officials Also Unhappy with PHF
Amid the growing tension, several high-level government officials have expressed concern over the state of affairs within the PHF. The federation’s internal mismanagement has not only affected the players but has also led to non-payment of salaries to PHF employees, causing widespread discontent.
In light of these developments, rumors of leadership changes within the PHF have gained momentum. Insiders suggest that former hockey captains Samiullah Khan and Hassan Sardar—both respected figures in Pakistan’s hockey history—may soon be appointed to key positions within the federation in an effort to restore order and credibility.
Asif Bajwa Resigns Amid Leadership Rift
Adding to the turmoil, Punjab Hockey Association President Asif Bajwa—a former PHF Secretary and influential figure in the sport—has reportedly resigned after a serious dispute with a senior PHF official. Sources close to Bajwa claim that his decision to step down came after persistent disagreements over the federation’s management and policy direction.
A federal minister close to Bajwa is said to have advised him to distance himself from PHF matters for the time being, further underlining the deepening crisis. Meanwhile, some government officials who attempted to mediate between the warring factions have also failed to bring about a resolution, pointing to the severity of the internal rift.
Players Threaten Boycott of Future Events
Amid the ongoing leadership crisis, the players have openly voiced their dissatisfaction with the PHF president and secretary, and are now threatening to boycott all upcoming domestic and international competitions, including training camps and official matches, if their financial dues remain unpaid.
The players are said to be united behind their captain, who is reportedly backed by several key members of the national squad. Their demand is clear: release of pending daily allowances and financial transparency from the federation.
PHF Responds with Disciplinary Action Over Audio Leak
In a surprising countermeasure, the PHF has taken notice of leaked audio clips that allegedly feature players criticizing the federation. These clips, which have been circulating in the media, have led the PHF to consider issuing show cause notices to the players involved.
PHF Secretary Rana Mujahid Ali Khan stated that the federation is currently reviewing the leaked audio to determine whether it is authentic or possibly generated using artificial intelligence (AI) technology. However, the players have denied making such statements, insisting the audios are fabricated.
Despite the audio controversy, the players maintain that the core issue is the non-payment of daily allowances. Rana Mujahid confirmed this, explaining that the federation is facing a critical shortage of funds and is relying on the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) to resolve the matter.
It is true that the players haven’t received their daily allowances,Rana Mujahid admitted. The reason is simple—we don’t have a working budget or income source. We’ve requested support from the Pakistan Sports Board, and we’re hopeful the issue will be resolved soon.
Government Steps In to Reassure Players
In response to the growing unrest, a senior government official has reportedly reached out to the players and provided assurance that their dues will be cleared soon. This has offered a temporary sense of relief but has not fully calmed the anger and frustration within the team.
PHF at a Crossroads
The Pakistan Hockey Federation is facing one of its most critical moments in recent years, with internal mismanagement, unpaid dues, and leadership disputes threatening the future of the sport in the country. While the potential induction of seasoned hockey veterans like Samiullah Khan and Hassan Sardar may help stabilize the situation, real change will only occur if the PHF prioritizes financial transparency, player welfare, and institutional reform.
Unless immediate steps are taken to address the grievances of both players and employees, the legacy of Pakistan’s national sport may continue to suffer—both on and off the field.
