Naqvi promises support for Pakistan hockey team amid PHF turmoil

Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Mohsin Naqvi met members of the national men’s hockey team in Lahore and pledged to resolve their concerns after players reported alleged mistreatment during the Pro Hockey League.

Naqvi expressed regret over the incidents described by the players and assured them that they would receive institutional backing ahead of the World Cup Qualifier in Egypt. He said the authorities would support the team in every possible way and help streamline hockey-related matters during the ongoing crisis.

He directed officials to immediately arrange air tickets, playing kits and hotel accommodation for the squad’s upcoming commitments. He also ordered a training camp to begin from Friday, instructing that preparations be completed by Thursday night.

Naqvi further asked that injured players be provided medical treatment under PCB supervision and urged the team to remain focused, stressing that Pakistan’s honour must come first.

During the meeting, he distributed cheques of Rs1 million each to players following their runner-up finish in a recent national hockey tournament, fulfilling an earlier announcement. Players thanked him for the outreach and support.

Naqvi also clarified he is not seeking to head the Pakistan Hockey Federation, saying he would continue assisting the players only until the current turmoil ends. His remarks followed PHF President Tariq Bugti’s resignation, which was sent to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.