Turmoil in Pakistan hockey? Captain Ammad Butt voices frustration over lack of financial help

Pakistan hockey team will face France in the FIH Nations Cup semi-finals.

Pakistan hockey team captain Ammad Butt has slammed the federation for their lack of financial support. He revealed that the players are yet to receive their daily allowances and are struggling to keep up with their expenses in the ongoing FIH Nations Cup in Malaysia.

Ammad Butt spoke on behalf of the Pakistan Hockey team players, who are currently competing in the FIH Nations Cup 2025 in Malaysia. He raised concerns about the struggles and challenges the players are facing while representing their nation.

“Is there anyone who truly understands the struggles of Pakistan hockey?” Ammad questioned while comparing the country’s national sport with cricket.

“Do our politicians care about the national sport? Do ministers take an interest in the game that once brought Olympic gold to this country? Businessmen spend crores on cricket leagues, but when it comes to hockey, there’s no budget,” he added as quoted by ASports TV.

The Pakistan hockey players have been in Malaysia for over 10 days but are reportedly yet to receive their daily allowance. The report also adds that the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) have multiple outstanding dues to players and coaching officials from previous events and training camps. The players had requested for a part of the dues to be cleared before their departure, but their plea fell on deaf ears, the report further added.

“As players, our hearts ache,” Ammad Butt added.

“We are still on the field, still fighting for the flag, but we cannot do it alone,” a dejected Ammad concluded by saying.

Pakistan finish second in Pool B points table; qualify for FIH Nations League semi-final

The Pakistan Hockey team finished second in the Pool B standings of the Men’s FIH Nations League 2024-25. They have four points from three group stage matches, including one win, one draw, and a loss.

The Men in Green began their campaign with a 3-3 loss against Pakistan, before defeating Japan 3-2. They lost their final group stage encounter against New Zealand 4-3.

Pakistan have secured a place in the semi-finals of the competition. They will face France in the first semi-final on Friday (June 20), while New Zealand will lock horns with Korea in the second semi-final match.

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