LAHORE, Jan 5: The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has refused to give permission to international player Waqas Akbar to play league hockey in France, under its policy to bind the players for the forthcoming Asia Cup.

Waqas made a request to PHF secretary Asif Bajwa on Monday, asking for permission to play league hockey in France since he had signed a contract till June this year.

But Asif refused to give him the NOC, saying the PHF could not bear the loss of any player before Asia Cup which will be held in Dubai from May 8 to 15.

Asif said the PHF could exempt the players for Azlan Shah Cup but not for the Asia Cup.

Meanwhile, the PHF secretary said that he was expecting a reply from the Malaysian Hockey Federation about their next month’s proposed tour to Pakistan on Tuesday.

The PHF has extended an invitation to Malaysia either to play a three-match series against Pakistan or to be part of the three-team competition, also involving Pakistan seniors and junior team.