Pakistan hockey has once again plunged into a severe financial crisis. The national hockey team, which participated in the final of the FIH Nations Cup scheduled in Malaysia, has been struggling for daily expenses for several days. The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) was supposed to pay each player Rs. 30,000 per day for ten days, but so far, no player has received this compensation.

Not only the players, but also the coaching staff and officials have been deprived of their daily allowances. This situation impacted the players' morale during the FIH Nations Cup final against New Zealand, where the Green Shirts suffered a heavy 6-2 defeat.

According to sources, players have been paying for their food and personal needs out of their own pockets, which has led to considerable frustration. Some players even had to seek financial help from their families to meet basic necessities.

Unfortunately, this situation is not new for Pakistan hockey. In recent years, the national team has missed several international events due to financial constraints.

Earlier this year, non-participation in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, also held in Malaysia, was largely due to unpaid dues. Likewise, the daily allowance of Rs. 20,000 for the 2024 Asian Hockey Champions Trophy held in China was not paid on time, leading to players expressing strong dissatisfaction.

Hockey players have questioned why millions are spent on cricket leagues in the country while their modest compensation is not paid on time.

PHF Secretary General Rana Mujahid Ali, commenting on the dire situation, stated that the federation immediately needs Rs. 60-70 million to cover players' dues, daily allowances, and administrative costs. He noted that participation in such an international tournament incurs a minimum expense of Rs. 15 million, yet the required funds are not provided.

According to the PHF Secretary, if the Government of Pakistan allocates Rs. 1 billion annually to hockey, the team can regain its lost glory.