Pakistan risks omission from Sultan Azlan Shah Cup

ISLAMBAD: In a surprising turn of events, the Malaysian Hockey Federation has confirmed that Pakistan has not been invited to participate in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup to be held in Ipoh from November 22 to 29. The reason for the exclusion is due to unpaid dues totaling USD 10,349 owed to the Johor Hockey Association.

The outstanding amount is linked to the financial obligations of the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) incurred during the Pakistani team’s tour of Malaysia for the Johor Hockey Cup in October 2023. During the trip, not only the players but also PHF officials and their families travelled to Malaysia, with the team later staying at the same luxury hotel.

A PHF source revealed that while the tournament organizers covered the team’s accommodation and related expenses, PHF officials were informed that they would have to bear their own accommodation, travel and other expenses. However, the PHF has not settled these expenses, prompting the Johor Hockey Association to formally request payment. The association has now escalated the matter to the Malaysian Hockey Federation, warning that if the dues are not paid, they may take the matter to the International Hockey Federation (FIH).

The unpaid amount has put the current PHF administration in a difficult position, as the federation is already facing financial difficulties. Sources said the PHF was unaware of the additional expenses incurred by the former officials, further complicating the situation.