Audit Claims PHF Officials Misused Rs87 Million in Grants

Pakistan hockey finds itself in another storm after the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) declared over Rs87 million (approximately $306,794 USD) of the Pakistan Hockey Federation’s (PHF) recent spending as unauthorised.

The audit revealed that the PHF received Rs119.667 million in government grants across the last two financial years. Of this, only Rs32.317 million was deemed admissible. The remaining amount, auditors noted, was spent under questionable heads—most notably hefty travel and daily allowances (TA/DA) claimed by top PHF office-bearers.

PHF President Tariq Bugti, who is already under fire, and secretary Rana Mujahid reportedly claimed $500 in daily allowances while on international tours, while the players continued to be ignored and have yet to be paid for their services.

While the federation has long argued that financial constraints hinder its ability to compete consistently at the highest level, these revelations cast serious doubt over its priorities. Instead of channeling resources into player development, grassroots programs, and international preparation, a significant portion of the grants has reportedly gone into administrative perks leaving the players at their breaking points.

The timing of the audit could not be more critical. Pakistan’s hockey team is aiming to regain a foothold in the prestigious Pro League—a competition seen as vital to rebuilding the nation’s reputation in world hockey. Yet, questions now arise over whether the PHF can secure the financial backing and credibility needed to honour such commitments when its spending practices are under the microscope.

The PHF is seeking a massive Rs700 million ($2.6 million) grant to take part in the Pro League, but financial backers are hesitant to commit money to a sinking ship.

The federation has not yet issued a formal rebuttal, but the message from the audit is clear: unless the PHF restores financial discipline and proves it can manage grants responsibly, Pakistan’s return to top-tier international hockey may remain out of reach.