The Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) has disbursed Rs23 million to the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) to assist in meeting its financial obligations related to the national team’s participation in the recently concluded Asian Champions Trophy in China. This financial aid is deemed “crucial support” by the PSB and is aimed at ensuring the team’s performance and competitiveness on the international stage.
Before the team departed for China, PHF officials disclosed that the federation was grappling with a severe shortage of funds, forcing them to rely on loans to facilitate the team’s participation in the prestigious tournament. The PSB had assured the PHF that the expenses would be reimbursed, a promise now fulfilled with the release of the Rs23 million.
In addition to this recent allocation, the Ministry of Inter-Provincial Coordination (IPC) and the PSB have provided a special grant of Rs96.65 million to the PHF over the past six months. This funding was intended to support the federation’s participation in various international tournaments.
Despite financial constraints, the Pakistan national hockey team performed commendably at the Asian Champions Trophy. In the semifinals, they faced a narrow defeat in a penalty shootout against the host nation, China. However, the team showcased resilience by securing a bronze medal with a decisive 5-2 victory over Korea in the third-place match.
Earlier in the tournament, Pakistan demonstrated their competitive spirit in a closely contested group match against their traditional rivals, India, ultimately losing 1-2.