PHF answers: FIH disciplinary committee’s questions

KARACHI: Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has sent a comprehensive reply to FIH disciplinary committee which had asked why the country did not participate in the Pro League after making a commitment, 'The News' learnt on Monday.

Informed sources said that PHF had answered all FIH questions. The content of PHF replies could not be ascertained in detail as it was confidential but it was learnt that the PHF legal experts tried their best to satisfy the FIH disciplinary committee.

The lack of funds was the main reason behind not participating in Pro League which began in January. Pakistan’s case was discussed in detail by the members of FIH executive board two weeks ago. PHF secretary Shahbaz Ahmed participated in the meeting as executive board member and PHF secretary.

He presented Pakistan's case forcefully, saying the country wanted to participate in the event, had organised a training camp for that purpose and trials had also been held. But lack of funds made it impossible for PHF to send the team.

The sources said that a few members raised some questions, but the majority supported Pakistan’s point of view. Later, the matter was sent to FIH disciplinary committee, which is expected to reply in the first week of April.

Meanwhile, PHF has started the preparation for the national championship. It will announce the details about the championship in a couple of days. The championship will be named after Pakistan’s sports icon late Air Marshal Noor Khan. It will be held in Karachi in April. The final dates are yet to be announced.