LAHORE: In a significant boost for the national team ahead of its FIH Pro League campaign, the akistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has cleared all outstanding dues and distributed Rs45 million among players before their departure for Europe.

According to a PHF statement issued on Thursday, the payment includes the Prime Minister’s reward for the team’s qualification for the upcoming Hockey World Cup as well as advance daily allowances, ensuring the players are financially settled before leaving for the international assignment.

The national squad is scheduled to depart on June 9 for the Pro League matches in Belgium and England.

PHF acting president Mohuyuddin Wani described the move as an unprecedented step aimed at allowing players to focus solely on their performances.

“In the past, players often worried about whether they would receive their allowances on time during overseas tours. We wanted to change that,” Wani said.

He added that all dues related to the Pro League campaign and the forthcoming World Cup had been cleared in advance.

The PHF termed the development a landmark moment for Pakistan hockey, claiming it was the first time that all payments due to players had been settled well before the start of an international tour.

The federation also announced a revised allowance structure under which senior and junior national players will receive a daily allowance of US$110 during international tours, in addition to boarding and lodging facilities.

According to the PHF, it is the highest daily allowance ever approved for Pakistan hockey players.

The increase comes after Pakistan secured qualification for the Hockey World Cup for the first time in eight years, marking a return to the sport’s premier event after missing the previous two editions.

“The initiative reflects the government’s commitment to supporting the national team and creating a professional environment that allows players to concentrate entirely on performance,” the PHF said.

Pakistan will feature in the fourth phase of the Pro League in England later this month, where they are scheduled to face arch-rivals India on June 23 and 28.

The two sides will also meet during the World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by Belgium and the Netherlands from Aug 15-30.

Pakistan, the former four-time World Cup winners, have been drawn in Pool ‘D’ alongside India, England and Wales for the 16-team tournament.

Pool ‘A’ comprises the Netherlands, Japan, Arge­ntina and New Zealand, while Pool ‘B’ features hosts Belgium, Germany, France and Malaysia. Australia, Spain, Ireland and South Africa make up Pool ‘C’.

Published in Dawn, June 5th, 2026