Pakistan’s return to top-tier international hockey now depends on the federal government, as the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) has formally decided to seek financial backing from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for the country’s participation in the upcoming FIH Pro League 2025–26.
The move was confirmed during the 34th board meeting of the PSB held in Islamabad, where officials discussed various sports-related matters. A key highlight of the session was the invitation extended by the International Hockey Federation (FIH) for Pakistan to replace New Zealand in the Pro League after the latter’s withdrawal due to financial constraints.
The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) estimates that approximately Rs700 million (around USD 2.5 million) would be needed to manage travel, training, and logistical expenses across the home-and-away fixtures scheduled between December 2025 and June 2026. With no available funds in PSB’s current budget, the board decided to forward the matter to the Prime Minister’s Office for a final decision.
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Despite the opportunity, concerns remain over the PHF’s financial handling, as the PSB has asked for a thorough audit of past funding. Recent complaints from players regarding unpaid salaries have only added to the uncertainty.
A similar funding crisis in 2019 forced Pakistan to withdraw from the league, resulting in a fine of 170,000 euros and international embarrassment. Officials are now keen to avoid repeating that mistake.
