Pakistan’s hockey stars are back on track for the FIH Pro-League after a bitter pay dispute was settled, ending a tense two-week protest that included shunning training sessions. The development, detailed in a Thursday report, ensures the team’s presence in the crucial second phase Down Under.
PHF Secretary Rana Mujahid’s meeting with players in Islamabad proved pivotal, promising $114 daily per diems for the Hobart showdowns. This funding boost from the Pakistan Sports Board— a hefty 250 million PKR— addresses immediate concerns, though lingering back payments remain unresolved.
The board had cracked down after the first leg’s chaos in December, demanding swift settlements for dues. A player told Telecom Asia Sport, ‘We’ve fought hard to keep this tour alive despite PHF’s intransigence. It’s heartbreaking when your passion and breadwinner is at stake.’ Relief came via the board’s push, with hopes that promises hold during the Australia trip.
The schedule pits Pakistan against hosts Australia twice (Feb 10, 13) and Germany twice (Feb 11, 14). Their Pro-League entry followed New Zealand’s pullout, buoyed by a runner-up finish in the Nations Cup.
Yet, the opener was a rout: defeats to Netherlands (7-3, 5-2) and Argentina (5-1, 3-2). For a nation with storied glory—four World Cups, three Olympics— the post-2012 Olympic drought highlights deeper administrative and performance woes now somewhat eased by this truce.
