Minister for Interprovincial Coordination Rana Sanaullah has taken notice of alleged mismanagement by the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) during the national team’s recent tour of Australia, directing the federation to submit a detailed report and warning of action against those found responsible.

The development follows reports that the Pakistan hockey team faced serious administrative and logistical difficulties during its participation in the FIH Pro League in Australia.

Read: Pakistan hockey team left stranded during Australia Pro League tour

The team’s travel was delayed after visa applications were initially rejected due to incomplete documentation, requiring the process to be repeated before departure. After arriving in Australia, the players were left without arrangements during a prolonged layover, with no accommodation or meals provided, forcing them to make their own temporary arrangements.

Problems persisted upon arrival in Hobart, where the team’s hotel booking was cancelled due to non-payment. With no alternative accommodation secured in advance, the players were compelled to arrange private lodging in order to continue the tour. The episode caused distress among players and raised broader concerns over the administrative handling of the tour, particularly given the team’s participation in a major international competition.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the minister said the incident had brought disrepute to the country and the sport, stressing that lapses affecting national athletes were unacceptable. He said an inquiry had been initiated to determine responsibility and ensure accountability.

Sanaullah instructed the PHF to submit a comprehensive explanation of the circumstances that led to the incident and said strict action would follow if mismanagement was established.

He reiterated the government’s commitment to safeguarding athletes’ welfare and improving governance in national sports bodies to prevent a recurrence of such incidents.