Pakistan to Clash with France in FIH Nations Cup Semi-Final

KUALA LUMPUR: Following their second-place finish in Pool B, the Pakistan hockey team is slated to compete against France in the semi-finals of the FIH Nations Cup. However, team captain Ammad Butt has voiced profound discontent regarding the inadequate monetary backing from authorities. He revealed that the players are still awaiting their daily stipends despite their advancement to the semi-finals.

Ammad, speaking on behalf of his fellow players, conveyed a compelling message, underscoring the consistent neglect of Pakistan’s national sport.

“Does anyone truly grasp the hardships faced by Pakistan hockey players?” Ammad questioned with concern.

“Are our politicians invested in the national sport? Do ministers demonstrate interest in the sport that once secured Olympic gold for our nation? Business magnates allocate substantial funds to cricket leagues, but when it comes to hockey, there appears to be a lack of financial resources,” he lamented.

Sources indicate that the players have been in Malaysia for over a week and a half without receiving their daily allowances, purportedly fixed at PKR 30,000 per day.

The problem goes beyond the ongoing competition. The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has yet to settle pending dues for a pair of recent training camps. Prior to their departure for Malaysia, the players even requested partial payments to address vital needs, but their plea was ignored.

“As players, we are deeply disheartened,” Ammad Butt expressed. “We remain committed on the field, persistently striving for our nation, but we cannot succeed in isolation.”

He implored the government, ministers, the corporate sector, and the public to unite in revitalizing Pakistan hockey.

“It is imperative for all stakeholders, including the government, ministers, businesses, and citizens, to collaborate and reignite the fervor for Pakistan Hockey before it is too late.”

Notably, the Green Shirts secured their place in the semi-finals after finishing as runners-up in Pool B and are now scheduled to face France on June 20. The other semi-final will feature New Zealand against Korea.