The reasons behind Pakistan hockey’s decline has long been a subject of debate, but Ammad Butt, the current captain of the international side, has pointed the blame at lack of adequate funding as the main reason behind its struggles.
As Pakistan’s men’s hockey team prepares for the crucial Nations Cup in Malaysia, Ammad Butt has made an urgent appeal to the government: increase funding for the national sport or risk losing its future. In a conversation with Geo News, Ammad called for more financial support from the authorities for the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF), stressing that regular international participation is vital for development.
“The national hockey team needs to travel and compete more. The more we play, the better we’ll get. There is no shortage of talent in Pakistan hockey—what we need is support,” Ammad said.
The Nations Cup, scheduled from June 15 to 21 in Malaysia, is more than just another tournament, especially for Pakistan. It’s a qualifying round for the FIH Pro League—making it a stepping stone for Pakistan’s return to the top level of world hockey.
Ammad Butt also voiced a broader concern in Pakistan hockey: the lack of facilities and structured competition in Pakistan compared to what international players enjoy. He called on stakeholders to launch a professional hockey league in the country, similar to the Pakistan Super League in cricket.
“There should be a PSL-style league for hockey as well. That’s how we’ll discover more talent for the national team,” he said.
“Foreign players have better facilities. Our players are not treated the same. We want to win because victories can lift Pakistan hockey again.”
Ammad also didn’t hide his disappointment with how hockey gets left behind as cricket dominates public and private support in Pakistan.
“I want to say this to those who love sports—please don’t just support cricket. Hockey will bring you World Cup and Olympic gold again. We will lift the Nations Cup trophy, too.”
Pakistan will begin its Nations Cup campaign against hosts Malaysia on June 15, followed by games against Japan (June 16) and New Zealand (June 18). The semi-finals are set for June 20, with the final on June 21.
With passion, preparation, and purpose on their side, Ammad and his team are ready. Now, they ask for the country to stand with them.
Good luck . You won’t bet funding as ministers take it easy