KARACHI: Former captain Samiullah Khan likened the Pakistan hockey team to a “club- level” outfit after another embarrassing show at the international level.
Pakistan ended their campaign at the Hockey 9s International Super Series in last place after Malaysia, who had lost their entire preliminary games beat them 2-1 in the bronze medal match on Sunday.
“Pakistan Hockey Federation has brought down Pakistan’s standard to that of a club-level team as a result of their personal egos and poor administration,” the former Olympian Samiullah told APP in an interview
“Current PHF hierarchy has done irreparable damage to Pakistan hockey which will take years to recover,” the star forward of yesteryear stressed.He said after the failure of the team to qualify for next year's Hockey World Cup for the first time in 42-years, there was no real concern shown by the federation.
“I really feel sorry for the state of affairs."
“Our hockey is passing through the poorest phase in history and if urgent steps are not taken, Pakistan may also be out of the Asian Games as well. Pakistan hockey suffered blow after blow and humiliation due to wrangling and infighting and dirty politics in Pakistan sports.”
Samiullah called for the immediate removal of PHF officials and introducing of ad-hoc body to take charge of PHF, much like the Prime Minister had done with the Pakistan Cricket Board.
He said elections of PHF should be held under a neutral set-up by sacking all the current office bearers.
“After Asif Bajwa, the rest of PHF should show grace by resigning from their respective positions,” the legendary left winger said.