Pakistan hockey players have decided to join the second round of the FIH Hockey Men’s Pro League following assurances of payment after a two-week boycott due to unpaid allowances. The Pakistan Hockey Federation secretary met with the players in Islamabad and guaranteed the promised daily allowances of 114 US dollars for the upcoming matches in Hobart, Australia. The players had faced financial issues during the first round in December, prompting the Sports Board to intervene and demand clearance of all outstanding dues.
The agreement reached pertains to the second round matches, with no assurances regarding the pending payments. Despite efforts to resolve the situation and proceed with the tour, concerns remain about the Federation fulfilling its commitments. The players expressed disappointment over the circumstances, emphasizing the importance of hockey as their livelihood and expressing hope that the PHF honors its promises for the Australia tour.
Pakistan is scheduled to compete against Australia on February 10 and 13, followed by matches against Germany on February 11 and 14 in the upcoming round of the Pro League. Despite finishing second in the FIH Nations Cup last year, Pakistan secured a spot in the Pro League after New Zealand’s withdrawal due to financial constraints. In the previous round, Pakistan faced defeats against the Netherlands and Argentina, highlighting the challenges they encountered.
