Pakistan’s national hockey team is facing a significant financial hurdle, potentially missing out on the prestigious FIH Pro League due to an inability to secure $2.5 million in funding, prompting Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to likely make the final decision.
A Coveted Invitation
The International Hockey Federation (FIH) recently extended an invitation to Pakistan to join the top-tier Pro League. This opportunity arose after New Zealand, who had originally qualified, decided not to participate.
Pakistan had earned their spot by finishing second in the FIH Nations Cup, a second-tier tournament where the winner gets promoted. Although they lost the final to New Zealand, the unexpected withdrawal opened the door for the Green Shirts.
The FIH has given Pakistan until August 12 to confirm their participation in the Pro League, which features a series of matches among the world’s top-ranked teams across two legs.
The Steep Price Tag
For the cash-strapped Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF), the Pro League campaign comes with a hefty price. They estimate the entire endeavor would cost approximately 700 million Pakistani Rupees, which translates to about $2.5 million.
To secure these crucial funds, the PHF promptly submitted a request to the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB), hoping for a quick release of the money to confirm their spot in the league.
Funds Denied, Questions Raised
However, the state-run Pakistan Sports Board delivered a disappointing response. It informed the PHF that it simply does not possess the funds required to ensure Pakistan’s participation in the Pro League.
Adding to the PHF’s woes, the PSB has also directed the national hockey federation to submit a detailed account of all funds allocated to them since last year. This move suggests a demand for greater financial transparency amidst the current crisis.
The Prime Minister’s Intervention
With the PSB unable to provide the necessary finances, the decision has been escalated to the highest level. Following a recent meeting, the Pakistan Sports Board authorized its president, Rana Sanaullah, to make the final call.
It was also agreed that a formal letter, outlining the rationale and objectives for participation, would be sent by the PSB President directly to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. This indicates that the Prime Minister is now expected to weigh in on the hockey team’s fate.
A History of Financial Setbacks
This isn’t the first time Pakistan’s hockey aspirations have been hampered by financial constraints. The country previously missed a chance to play in the Pro League due to similar issues.
In 2019, Pakistan was slated to compete in the inaugural Pro League. However, after initially sending their entry, the PHF was forced to withdraw due to a severe financial crunch, resulting in the FIH imposing a significant fine of 170,000 euros on the federation.
- Pakistan was invited to the FIH Pro League after New Zealand withdrew.
- The estimated cost for participation is $2.5 million (700 million PKR).
- The Pakistan Sports Board has stated it lacks the funds and requested a financial audit from the PHF.
- The final decision on the team’s participation will likely be made by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
- Pakistan previously withdrew from the 2019 Pro League due to financial issues, incurring a substantial fine.
The coming days will be critical for Pakistan hockey as the nation awaits a definitive decision on their presence in one of the sport’s most prestigious tournaments.
