The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has decided not to send team manager Anjum Saeed with the national squad to Australia.
According to sources, the decision was taken due to a violation of team discipline. As a result, Tahir Zaman, the head coach of the Pakistan hockey team, will also serve as the camp commandant and take over the managerial responsibilities during the Australia tour.
Sources further stated that Anjum Saeed will remain part of the team setup but will not travel to Australia with the squad.
The decision follows an incident during the team’s return from Argentina after the first phase of the FIH Pro Hockey League. Sources claim that Anjum Saeed allegedly smoked on board the aircraft, which was considered a breach of discipline.
It was also reported that he did not return to Pakistan with the team and was allegedly stopped in Brazil. However, Anjum Saeed had denied the allegation of smoking during the flight.
The second phase of the Pro Hockey League will be held from February 10 to 15 in Hobart, Australia. During this stage, host Australia, Pakistan, and Germany will compete against each other.
To prepare for the upcoming Pro Hockey League fixtures, the training camp for probable Pakistan hockey team players will begin on January 5.