The International Hockey Federation (FIH) has yet to receive a formal response from Hockey New Zealand regarding their participation in the upcoming FIH Pro League, leaving the door open for potential replacements—most notably Pakistan.

Despite claims by the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) that discussions with FIH are ongoing, FIH Senior Communications Manager Nicolas Maingot clarified that no official invitation has been extended to any replacement team as of now.

Maingot addressed speculation surrounding Pakistan’s inclusion, stating, “At this moment, we are not at the stage of inviting the runner-up of the Nations Cup. The winners receive the first opportunity, and only if they decline will the runner-up be considered.”

New Zealand, who previously withdrew from the last edition of the FIH Pro League due to government funding cuts, may once again sit out of the tournament. However, no official stance has been communicated to FIH, Maingot confirmed via email.

Pakistan, the runner-up of the FIH Nations Cup, remains in the conversation as a potential replacement should New Zealand pull out. According to PHF Secretary Rana Mujahid, FIH has reached out to ask about Pakistan’s availability in principle.

“FIH has inquired if we would be ready in case New Zealand withdraws, and we have expressed our willingness,” Mujahid stated. “We are awaiting an official response on New Zealand’s participation to move forward with any preparations.”

While no concrete steps have been taken by the FIH to invite Pakistan formally, preliminary discussions appear to be underway behind the scenes to assess Pakistan’s logistical and financial readiness.

With funding challenges already impacting New Zealand hockey, the global hockey community now awaits an official update that could potentially reshape the 2025 FIH Pro League lineup.