A disgruntled Pakistan hockey team has departed for Egypt for the World Cup qualifiers under a head coach who was banned for life due to a mistake in the team’s previous global event. The players are dissatisfied with the interim arrangements made for the team, as the federation did not secure a foreign coach but instead appointed a Pakistani coach banned in 2023.
The team, led by Ammad Butt, expressed their discontent with the interim setup, preferring Dutchman Roelant Oltmans as the head coach. However, the national hockey’s new interim head, Khawaja Junaid, who was banned for life in 2023, was appointed instead.
Despite the players’ preferences, the interim president, Mohiyuddin Wani, advised them to proceed with Junaid due to time constraints for the World Cup Qualifiers. Skipper Ammad Butt even reached out to the Pakistan Cricket Board chairman for intervention, but received no response as the chairman was occupied with other responsibilities as the Interior Minister.
The discontent within the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) and the team arises from political appointments, with sources indicating that the involvement of political affiliations has kept certain officials at bay from interfering in the hockey affairs.
In 2023, Junaid faced a lifetime ban from hockey activities following an investigation that held him accountable for the national team’s elimination from the 2022 Asia Cup. The team’s exit from the tournament was sealed after a crucial goal was disallowed due to an extra player on the field, resulting in Japan’s victory and Pakistan’s elimination from the Asia Cup and the World Cup 2022 qualification.
Pakistan, a four-time World Champions, has faced challenges with their hockey team failing to qualify for the 2022 and 2014 World Cups. Their poor performances in previous editions have raised concerns, with Junaid, despite multiple coaching roles, unable to secure a major title for Pakistan.
The interim measures were implemented after the Pakistan team faced difficulties in Canberra, where players reported inadequate accommodation and struggles to receive their approved daily allowances for foreign tours.
