The federal government has approved a Rs25 crore grant for the Pakistan hockey team and allowed its participation in the Pro Hockey League.

 

Officials told the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Inter-Provincial Coordination that the team would take part in the league, with expenses covered through the grant.

 

Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) Secretary Rana Mujahid said, “The Pro League is a major event featuring the world’s top 10 teams. We need Rs35 crore to participate in this event.”

 

Mohyuddin Wani added, “The Ministry of Finance will provide Rs25 crore, while the remaining Rs10 crore will come from sponsorships.”

 

Speaking to a private media outlet, hockey player Imad Butt expressed his excitement over the development. “We are happy to get the green signal for participation in the Pro League. Playing in this event will improve Pakistan’s hockey rankings,” he said.

 

He further added, “We still have time to prepare for the tournament and we thank the government for its support.” However, Imad highlighted that the issue of players’ daily allowances remains unresolved. “The development of hockey should not rely solely on government funds. The federation must take practical steps to generate its own resources,” he stressed.

 

Earlier, reports revealed that national players were still waiting for their pending daily allowances despite repeated delays. 

 

Each player is reportedly owed around Rs500,000 for recent international events and domestic training camps, including the FIH Nations Cup. Players said that these allowances are their main source of income since they have no central contracts or fixed salaries.