Islamabad – Pakistan’s national hockey team players have strongly rejected the proposed Rs 400 daily allowance, calling it an insult to their dignity and services. The players said that being offered such a small amount undermines their struggles and sacrifices for the sport.
The players argued that Rs 400 is far less than the wage of a daily laborer, which is around Rs 2,000, and termed the proposal as “rubbing salt into wounds.” They added that they are already facing financial hardships and such offers only make survival more difficult.
Players Express Anger and Disappointment
National players expressed serious concerns, saying the proposed allowance shows how little value is placed on their efforts. According to them, allowances are often delayed, and now with such a reduction, many athletes may be forced to consider leaving hockey altogether.
One player remarked, “The country has given us much, but it is painful to see these conditions. Our households are struggling to survive, and all we are being offered is Rs 400 per day. Even a laborer earns more than this.”
Another senior player said that such treatment is demoralizing, especially when players dedicate months to training camps while their families face economic challenges back home.
Several players also pointed out that hockey, unlike cricket, lacks sponsorships and commercial backing. Without proper allowances, many athletes struggle to afford even basic training equipment, nutrition, and healthcare.
Also See: Martial Arts Star’s Shocking Plea Over Broken Promises
PHF’s Clarification
In response, Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) Secretary Rana Mujahid explained that the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) suggested the Rs 400 daily allowance. He pointed out that the PHF has been giving players USD 100 per day during international tours and questioned, “If players are not satisfied with 100 dollars, how can they be expected to play for 400 rupees?”
He further clarified that the federation has repeatedly requested the government to revise allowances, proposing a domestic daily allowance of at least Rs 3,000 to make conditions more reasonable.
Mujahid also stressed that Pakistan hockey cannot survive without government support. He said that despite PHF’s efforts, the federation is struggling to arrange funds for training camps, foreign tours, and grassroots development.
Future of Hockey at Stake
Players believe that this ongoing issue casts a shadow over the future of Pakistan hockey. Once a dominant force in the world with multiple Olympic and World Cup titles, the sport is now struggling due to financial neglect and poor management. Many players say they may be forced to abandon their careers if the matter is not resolved quickly.
Sports analysts recall that Pakistan last won a major hockey title in 1994, and since then, the decline has been steep. They argue that inadequate financial incentives are one of the key reasons young athletes avoid hockey, preferring cricket or football where financial rewards are far higher.
Observers warn that unless authorities provide proper financial support and respect to the players, Pakistan hockey risks losing more talent and further damaging its already fragile reputation on the international stage.
