KARACHI, Nov 17: Shahnaz Sheikh, the Pakistan hockey manager-cum-coach, on Friday urged Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) and concerned authorities to launch a probe into the affairs of previous administration which tarnished country’s image.

The former star said follies, administrative lapses and favouritism at the PHF during Brig Musarratullah Khan’s tenure as secretary ruined the grassroots of hockey while human trafficking scandal rocked the very foundations of the sport.

“Irreparable damage was done to Pakistan hockey in the previous set-up and nobody holds anyone accountable. I say that authorities, be it PHF, Pakistan Sports Board or law enforcement agencies should look into the PHF affairs of the last six to seven years. There has to be some accountability for it,” demanded Shahnaz while speaking to Dawn.

The former Olympian had to step down as manager during Musarrat’s tenure after he was charged with instigating penalty corner striker Sohail Abbas and midfielder Waseem Ahmad to play in the German league. Although Shahnaz was exonerated by a PHF inquiry committee, he chose to quit after the episode.

“It makes me sad and bitter to even think about those days. It was really the most frustrating and horrible experience of my career as a coach. But that chapter should not be forgotten so easily. There should be a thorough investigation against Musarrat who ruined the game during those six years.”

Shahnaz said junior hockey was completely destroyed while the then PHF secretary indulged in all kinds of dirty politics – from districts to provinces to the national level.

“It was dirty politics, favouritism and nepotism that destroyed hockey then, especially at the junior level. And as a result now we hardly find promising junior players,” the official said.

Shahnaz added that while PHF should probe into financial matters for any irregularities, through investigation should be made into the human smuggling scandal and strong action should be taken against the culprits.

“How could the PHF secretary send his favourites and family members with the team in the garb of hockey lovers? According to reports, some 45 unauthorised people were sent abroad using the PHF office to obtain visas and no action has been taken so far against the culprits. It is a shame for PHF and Pakistan.”