Butt Claims PHF Considers Action Against Him, Affirms Stance

LAHORE: Ammad Shakeel Butt, the captain of Pakistan’s men’s hockey team, stated on Saturday that senior players are still deliberating on potential actions against the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) due to outstanding payments.

Butt, a strong critic of the PHF regarding the national team’s unpaid dues, acknowledged awareness of discussions about possible player actions against the federation but stressed that these deliberations are ongoing.

“Speculation surrounds a potential player revolt, but no decisions have been made. We will promptly inform the media of any developments,” Butt stated.

These speculations emerged after a private conversation among national hockey players was leaked, where they accused the PHF of dishonesty and a lack of communication, noting that the federation had ceased addressing their concerns.

“The federation has consistently misled us and kept us uninformed. The fact that they now ignore our concerns is unacceptable,” the players expressed.

“We need responsiveness and attention to our concerns. Despite repeated assurances regarding daily allowances, these commitments remain unfulfilled,” the players added.

Butt also reassured his teammates during the conversation that he would strive to resolve the matter swiftly.

“The players have been treated unfairly, and I will ensure transparency on this matter,” Butt assured his colleagues.

Given his remarks during the private conversation, Butt asserted that the PHF is contemplating disciplinary measures against him but reaffirmed his commitment to his statements.

“I have heard that the federation is considering taking action against me, but no action has been implemented thus far,” Butt clarified.

“I stand by my statements in the audio. The federation needs to honor its commitments to the players. My statements are accurate and reflect a potential reality.”

“I will repeat these statements if necessary.”

It is worth noting that the Pakistan hockey team, silver medalists at the Nations Hockey Cup in Malaysia, have yet to receive their daily allowances.

Sources indicate that each player is owed approximately PKR 500,000 in unpaid daily allowances.

These sources also reveal a lack of progress in resolving the matter, with PHF officials ceasing all communication.

Sources further disclosed that international daily allowances were not disbursed during the FIH Nations Cup, exacerbating player frustration. The federation’s persistent silence has further fueled their discontent.

Additionally, the players have not received allowances for the training camps held in Islamabad across two phases.

Sources highlight that players are entitled to PKR 30,000 daily for international assignments and PKR 3,000 daily for domestic activities.