After seeking multiple deadline extensions, Pakistan finally accepted the International Hockey Federation’s (FIH) invitation to compete in the upcoming Pro League season. They replace New Zealand, who pulled out citing financial constraints. Ironically, Pakistan’s hesitation stemmed from the same issue – a lack of funds – before the government stepped in with assurances of support.
One man who knows the inner struggles of Pakistan hockey is former coach Roelant Oltmans. The Dutch tactician had quit the PHF post after refusing to work without a long-term contract. Now in Rajgir, assisting China’s new coach Michel van den Heuvel at the Asia Cup, Oltmans expressed doubt whether Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) can manage beyond the immediate relief.
That’s difficult to say. I am happy for the players that they can compete at such a level. It’s good for their development. I think for world hockey it will be good if Pakistan becomes a force again.
Government Aid, But Not Without Strings
The Pakistan government has promised Rs 250 million to cover Pro League logistical costs, but that figure still falls short of the Rs 350 million originally projected. PHF has been tasked with raising the remaining funds through sponsorships.
Even more tellingly, the funds will not flow directly into PHF accounts. Instead, the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) will control the money, reflecting the lack of trust in the federation’s handling of finances.
PHF Under Fire
The funding woes are not PHF’s only problem. Its president Tariq Bugti and secretary Rana Mujahid were summoned by the National Assembly Standing Committee to explain why players’ daily allowances had not been paid.
Worse, a PSB audit has flagged gross financial mismanagement, identifying over Rs 87 million in violations and misappropriations, including unusually high allowances granted to office-bearers. The PSB has deemed these expenses “non-admissible”.
Such revelations only reinforce Oltmans’s scepticism. “How they will do it and manage in the long term, I have no idea,” said Oltmans, who has also held key roles in India and Malaysia.
A New Role in China – For Now
For the moment, Oltmans has turned his focus to China. He linked up with the team directly in Rajgir at the request of his long-time colleague Michel van den Heuvel.
Michel asked if I would like to assist him during the Asia Cup. I thought it would be interesting. This is the first tournament we are working together. I haven’t been to China yet. As of now, I am with China only for this tournament. Afterwards we will discuss whether we will continue or not.
China, meanwhile, showed promise in their Asia Cup opener, pushing favourites India hard before losing 3–4. India captain Harmanpreet Singh delivered a hat-trick to edge his team past a spirited Chinese side.
It’s my first experience with the Chinese team, but I must say I was very pleased with what I saw.
The Big Question: With Pro League entry secured, Pakistan hockey players finally have a platform to showcase their talent. But with finances shaky, accountability issues unresolved, and the PSB keeping PHF on a short leash, Oltmans’s words hang heavy: Can Pakistan manage in the long run?
