Strict action will be taken against all those who will violate the instructions, said a PHF spokesman.—AFP photo

LAHORE: The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has directed all the players not to participate in the World Series of Hockey event which has been proposed by a controversial body of the Indian Hockey Federation recently.

“In line with the directions from the International Hockey Federation (FIH), the PHF, its affiliated units and players will not participate in the World Series of Hockey (WSH). Strict action will be taken against all those who will violate these instructions,” a PHF spokesman said.

According to the FIH instructions, it had received a communication from the Indian Hockey Federation (IHF) that they are planning a new event on the lines of Indian Hockey League which will be named World Series of Hockey which will be played on professional basis.

The FIH further stated that while IHF was a member for a long time, its membership was cancelled two years ago for its failure to comply with the FIH rules. Subsequently, Hockey India (HI) was formed and was formally admitted as a member of the FIH at the 2008 Congress.

“HI is now the only official body governing hockey in India which is also recognized by the FIH and the Indian Olympic Association,” the FIH concluded.