The newly appointed interim president of the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF), Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani, has announced the immediate lifting of a two-year ban imposed on national team captain Ammad Shakeel Butt, according to a statement reported by state-run APP on Friday.
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The ban had been imposed a day earlier by former PHF president Tariq Hussain Bugti, following findings of a committee that investigated alleged misconduct. Bugti also resigned from his position amid controversy surrounding the national team’s tour of Australia for the FIH Pro League.
In his first official statement, Wani said transparency and fairness would guide all decisions during his tenure and pledged to restore stability within the federation. He emphasised his commitment to reviving Pakistan’s national sport and rebuilding confidence among stakeholders.
Wani, who previously served as Secretary of the Inter-Provincial Coordination (IPC) ministry, said a comprehensive reform plan would focus on stabilising the federation, restructuring team management, and helping Pakistan regain its standing in international hockey.
He added that immediate steps were being taken to address organisational and administrative challenges. According to Wani, short-term priorities include stabilising PHF affairs, while medium-term plans involve developing a clear strategic vision, improving coaching and training systems, and enhancing coordination among relevant institutions.
The interim president also announced efforts to engage the private sector to provide better financial and professional support for players, stressing that athlete welfare and performance would remain central to reforms. Elections for new PHF leadership are also expected to be held.
Wani thanked Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for entrusting him with the interim role after Bugti’s resignation.
The developments follow criticism over Pakistan’s recent tour of Australia, where logistical issues — including delayed accommodation arrangements — forced players to spend several hours travelling by road. The team’s performance in the Pro League also drew scrutiny.
Soon after Bugti stepped down, Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Mohsin Naqvi met members of the hockey squad, including Butt and Hanan Shahid. Speaking to reporters, Butt said Naqvi informed him that no ban was in effect and confirmed that the same squad would travel to Egypt for upcoming matches.
The reversal of the ban, which had reportedly been imposed under the PHF constitution, has raised questions about procedural clarity within the federation.
