PHF Interim President Mohyuddin Wani interacts with youngsters at an event in Islamabad. Photo: file
ISLAMABAD:
Just a day after a two-year ban was slapped on national hockey team captain Ammad Butt, Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) Interim President Mohyuddin Wani announced Friday that the suspension had been lifted—signaling a reversal in tone as the federation moves to steady itself following recent turbulence.
The ban, imposed by PHF chief Tariq Bugti, drew swift criticism. Bugti stepped down after PM Shehbaz Sharif ordered an inquiry into the team’s tour of Australia, where players were left scrambling for accommodation in Hobart and forced to cook their own meals and wash dishes at a guest house after the federation failed to fund a proper hotel.
Butt had been at the forefront of the backlash, publicly slamming the PHF for the conditions players endured and for months of delayed allowances.
With Wani now at the helm on an interim basis, the federation appears to be turning the page. “I am hopeful for the revival and strengthening of hockey,” Wani said, adding that players should focus entirely on training and matches.
IPC federal secretary echoed the sentiment, announcing that the federation’s management would be reorganised from the ground up. Wani also confirmed that elections for new permanent leadership would be held, prioritizing transparency and justice in all decisions.
“All institutions are aligned for the revival of the national sport,” Wani said, noting that improved governance and partnerships with the private sector would ensure better financial support for players.
Meanwhile, the subcommittee of the National Assembly Standing Committee on Inter-Provincial Coordination also took strict notice of the issues facing the national hockey team on Friday and announced that it will seek a detailed briefing.
Speaking at a meeting held at Parliament House under her convenership, Meharin Razzaq Bhutto said what had happened to the national team was unfortunate.
“Our hearts beat for hockey just as they do for cricket. The committee will review who is truly responsible for this incompetence. We seem determined to destroy our own sports,” she said.
The meeting was attended by PHF interim president Mohyuddin Wani, the director general of the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB), and committee members.
