PM Shehbaz Reportedly Sacks Pakistan Hockey Team Management

Pakistan hockey team captain Ammad Butt has claimed that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has taken “very strict action” against the leadership of the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF).

“I have heard that the Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has taken very strict action and the President of the Hockey Federation, Tariq Bugti, the Secretary, Rana Mujahid, as well as the entire team management have been sacked,” Captain Ammad Butt said.

His statement comes amid earlier reports that the prime minister had decided to remove the hockey team management following an inquiry into allegations of poor accommodation, inadequate food arrangements and other logistical failures during the FIH Pro League tour of Australia.

The Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) ordered a formal inquiry after videos and statements emerged showing national players enduring substandard conditions, including makeshift accommodations and having to take on menial tasks such as washing dishes due to poor planning by the PHF.

The inquiry committee was chaired by PSB Chief Financial Officer Hasnat Ahmed, and included members Saeed Ahmed Chaudhry and Rana Nasrullah. The committee completed its investigation in just one day and submitted its findings to PSB Director General Yasir Pirzada.

Based on the findings of the inquiry report, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has decided to remove PHF President Mir Tariq Bugti, General Secretary Rana Mujahid, and the entire team management from their positions.

The reported action comes against the backdrop of growing frustration within the national squad. Earlier on Wednesday, the Pakistan hockey team had openly protested against the PHF management, with Captain Butt and other players stating that they could no longer continue working under the current management.

The players accused PHF officials of misleading them and failing to provide proper accommodation or support during the tour.

As of now, the Pakistan Hockey Federation has not issued an official statement confirming or denying the reported dismissals.