The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has recently witnessed a significant administrative change as the newly appointed ad-hoc president, Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani, took charge and lifted the controversial ban on national team captain Ammad Shakeel Butt. Wani assumed the role after the resignation of Tariq Bugti, whose departure was immediately accepted by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the federation’s Patron-in-Chief. The prime minister also addressed the ongoing mismanagement issues within the PHF.
This decision follows public outrage after videos surfaced on social media, showing the national hockey team living in substandard conditions during their recent tour of Australia. Butt had also raised serious allegations of mismanagement and mental harassment by the PHF and team management.
Bugti, in a press conference prior to his resignation, cited the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) for delayed fund disbursements, which caused significant challenges in organizing travel, accommodation, and logistical arrangements for the team during the FIH Pro League. Bugti had imposed a two-year ban on Butt, accusing him of threatening teammates and campaigning against the federation.
Upon taking charge, Wani emphasized that time is critical ahead of the World Cup qualifying round. He assured players that training camps would start immediately and that the federation would implement short-term emergency measures to revive hockey. Wani also committed to ensuring transparency, merit-based decisions, and improving coaching and institutional coordination.
Separately, Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Mohsin Naqvi met with the national hockey team in Lahore to address grievances and extend full support for the upcoming World Cup Qualifier in Egypt. He organized air travel, accommodation, training camps, and medical support, while also rewarding players with Rs1 million each for their recent national tournament performance. Naqvi clarified he has no intention to lead the PHF, focusing instead on supporting players during this transitional period.
With administrative reforms underway and the ban lifted, PHF aims to restore confidence, prioritize player welfare, and strengthen Pakistan hockey for upcoming international competitions.
