The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has yet to decide on the team’s participation in the upcoming Pro League, forcing the governing body to ask the International Hockey Federation (FIH) for another extension.
According to local sources, the PHF has sought more time after failing to raise the necessary funds, with the final decision still hinging on the release of government support.
Pakistan was handed a lifeline this year when New Zealand, citing financial constraints, pulled out of the nine‑nation league scheduled from December 2025 to June 2026. As runners‑up at the Nations Cup in Kuala Lumpur, Pakistan was next in line for a spot. The FIH initially asked for confirmation by August 12, later extending the deadline to August 20 at the PHF’s request—which also came and went.
With financial discussions still unresolved, PHF secretary Rana Mujahid revealed on Wednesday that another extension has now been sought.
“We have written to the FIH for additional time, as some details regarding the funding are still being worked out with the federal government,” Mujahid told reporters in Lahore. “The process is moving in the right direction, and we are hopeful that in the coming days Pakistan will be able to confirm its participation.”
The PHF has estimated that around Rs350 million will be required to cover travel, accommodation, and training expenses for players participating in the FIH Pro League.
Mujahid clarified that the federation has agreed the funds will not go directly into PHF accounts. Instead, the government would directly manage logistics such as airfare, camps, and accommodation, while any expenses for PHF officials traveling with the team would be borne by the federation itself, as the Pakistan Sports Board continues to keep a close watch on the PHF’s spending.
This approach comes against the backdrop of past controversies, after the Auditor General of Pakistan flagged irregularities in how government funds were utilized by the PHF between 2008 and 2022.
Failure to arrange funds in 2019 had already cost Pakistan dearly: the team missed the Pro League that year and was slapped with a hefty fine by the FIH, leading to a sharp decline in global rankings. The PHF is eager to avoid a repeat, knowing that the Pro League offers Pakistan’s players vital experience against top‑ranked nations.
Pakistan hockey’s immediate future now rests with financial backers and the FIH’s stance—with the whole country waiting for a positive development soon.