Pakistan Hockey Federation Dissolves Selection Panel and Coaching Staff
The interim president of the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has taken decisive action by dissolving the national team's selection panel and coaching staff. This move comes in response to recent upheaval within the sport, particularly following the controversial men's team tour of Australia for the FIH Pro League.
Administrative Lapses Exposed During Australia Tour
The decision to restructure the federation's technical operations follows serious administrative failures that came to light during the Australian tour. Upon arrival in Canberra, the national team faced an embarrassing situation when they were reportedly denied check-in at their hotel due to unpaid bills that had led to the cancellation of their bookings.
Players were left stranded with their luggage for several hours before alternative arrangements could be made. The situation deteriorated further as captain Ammad Shakeel Butt later revealed that players had to stay in substandard Airbnb accommodations and manage daily chores themselves—including cooking and cleaning—even on match days.
New Professional Development Committee Formed
In response to these administrative failures, federal secretary Muhuydin Wani has approved the formation of a new Professional Development Committee. This committee will be jointly led by former hockey greats Islahuddin Siddiqui and Hasan Sardar, both respected Olympians with extensive experience in the sport.
A PHF spokesperson explained that the committee aims to ensure technical excellence in administration and introduce greater professionalism within Pakistan hockey. The two Olympians will supervise national team selection, implement specialised training protocols, and set strict performance benchmarks for coaches and players.
Broader Restructuring Efforts Underway
As part of comprehensive restructuring efforts, the PHF has separated corporate governance, marketing, and resource mobilisation from technical hockey operations. This separation is designed to ensure more focused oversight and prevent the type of administrative lapses that occurred during the Australia tour.
The spokesperson added that the interim president has outlined a clear roadmap to improve governance standards and revive the sport's structure in the country. The newly formed committee will also co-chair a Professional Advisory Committee tasked with overseeing long-term management appointments, with additional members to be included in consultation with Siddiqui and Sardar.
Immediate Changes and Future Preparations
In immediate changes to the coaching structure, former Olympian Khawaja Junaid has been appointed interim head coach. He will take charge of preparations for the upcoming Olympic qualifying event in Egypt scheduled for the coming weeks, providing much-needed stability as the federation works to rebuild its technical operations.
The dissolution of the selection panel and coaching staff represents a significant shakeup in Pakistan hockey administration, signaling the federation's commitment to addressing systemic issues that have plagued the sport. With the new committee led by experienced Olympians and a clear roadmap for improvement, the PHF aims to restore professionalism and technical excellence to Pakistan's national hockey program.
