PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi held a meeting with Pakistan’s national hockey players in Lahore to address their complaints following the troubled Australia tour during the Pro Hockey League.
The meeting came after Pakistan Hockey Federation Chief Tariq Bugti resigned amid strong criticism from players. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has also ordered a formal inquiry into the team’s poor performance and management issues.
Pakistan captain Imad Shakeel Butt had earlier revealed that players were not given proper accommodation during the Australia tour. He pointed out serious shortcomings by federation officials.
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According to a PCB statement, players shared details of unpleasant incidents during the league. Naqvi expressed regret over the treatment of the team and assured them that corrective steps would be taken.
In appreciation of their performance, he presented cheques of Rs 1 million each to the players for finishing as runners-up in the Six Nations Hockey Tournament. The players thanked him for the financial support and encouragement.
Naqvi said, “We will provide full support and streamline hockey operations.” He made it clear that he is not becoming president of the Hockey Federation but will continue assisting players during the crisis.
He directed the Pakistan Sports Board to arrange tickets, kits, and hotel bookings for players participating in the World Cup qualifiers in Egypt. He also ordered that all camp arrangements be completed without delay.
A training camp will begin in Lahore from tomorrow to prepare the team for the upcoming events.
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Naqvi also took notice of injured player Hannan Shahid and directed that immediate medical treatment be arranged. “I want all players to focus solely on their game,” he said.
He further stated, “Pakistan’s honor comes first. We will not let anything harm the dignity of our country.” He added that foreign coach Roelant Oltmans will be brought in to assist the team.
The meeting signals an attempt to calm tensions and restore confidence in Pakistan's hockey after weeks of controversy.
