Players of Pakistan’s national hockey team have strongly criticized the proposal of a Rs400 daily allowance, calling it humiliating and unacceptable, media reports said on Thursday.

 

“It feels like rubbing salt on our wounds,” the players said, pointing out that Rs400 is not even equivalent to a laborer’s daily wage. “They are calling it our daily allowance. This is an insult. What could be a bigger devaluation than this?”

 

Frustrated team members added that employment opportunities are scarce, allowances are often delayed, and the Rs400 figure has left them disheartened. “If things continue like this, we will be forced to leave hockey. The country has given us everything, but hearing Rs400 really hurt,” they stated.

 

The players also revealed that their households are suffering due to irregular allowances. “Our stoves are going cold at home, and yet everyone has issues with our daily allowance,” they said.

 

Meanwhile, Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) Secretary Rana Mujahid clarified that the Rs400 figure was suggested by the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB), not the federation. “The hockey federation pays 100 dollars per day as allowance. If the players are not satisfied with 100 dollars, how can they play for Rs400," Mujahid remarked.

 

According to media reports, each player is owed around Rs500,000 for recent international and domestic assignments, including unpaid allowances from the FIH Nations Cup and two training camps in Islamabad. Currently, players are entitled to Rs30,000 per day for international events and Rs3,000 per day for domestic camps. With no central contracts or fixed salaries, these allowances remain their main income source. Players have accused the PHF of indifference and poor communication, saying officials have stopped responding to their queries.

 

Despite these financial troubles, Pakistan has secured a historic opportunity. The International Hockey Federation (FIH) confirmed that Pakistan will participate in the 2025-26 season of the FIH Hockey Pro League for the first time. Pakistan earned the slot after finishing as runners-up in the Nations Cup, with New Zealand declining the invitation.

 

To support the team’s participation, the federal government has approved a Rs25 crore grant. Officials told the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Inter-Provincial Coordination that the remaining Rs10 crore needed will be raised through sponsorships.

 

While players welcomed the Pro League chance, they stressed that financial uncertainty continues to hurt them. “The development of hockey should not rely solely on government funds. The federation must take practical steps to generate its own resources,” senior player Imad Butt said.

 

Tournament schedules and venues will be announced later, FIH confirmed.