Pakistan Hockey receives a major blow as the side has been left out in the upcoming Azlan Shah Cup to be held in November in Malaysia.
The Malaysian Hockey Federation has not extended invitation to last year’s runners-up Pakistan for the tournament owing to an “outstanding debt”.
The Malaysian authorities reportedly expressed dissatisfaction over the unresolved financial matters, leading to Pakistan’s exclusion.
Outstanding Debt Costs Pakistan Hockey
According to a source within the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF), the financial burden is a result of “bad decisions” made by a former official during the previous edition of the tournament.
“A former official of the PHF made some bad decisions during the last Azlan Shah Cup which left the PHF in debt to the MHF,” the source stated.
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Despite the setback, PHF officials are hopeful of a resolution to the matter. “Pakistan and Malaysia have very strong hockey ties built over the years, and this issue should be sorted out,” the source added.
Meanwhile, PHF Secretary Rana Mujahid has denied the claims, calling it baseless gossip.
“No truth in rumours about dues owed to Malaysian Hockey Federation,” said Mujahid while addressing the media.
The source said the PHF officials making efforts to sort out the matter with the MHF and hopefully the invite will come later this week.
“Pakistan and Malaysia have very strong hockey ties built over the years and this issue should be sorted out,” he added.
Also Read: Hockey’s Homecoming: International Hockey Returns To Pakistan After 15 Years
Pakistan had an impressive campaign in the 2024 edition, where they were undefeated in the group stage. They reached the final, but lost 4-1 in a penalty shootout to Japan.
The Sultan Azlan Shah Cup has long been a significant event in the international hockey calendar, and Pakistan’s potential absence would conspicuous in the competition.
Defending champions Japan will not be featuring in the tournament due to prior commitments.
