Shehbaz Sharif orders inquiry after Pakistan’s national hockey team underperforms

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has signaled a dramatic shift in government policy following the country’s national hockey team’s disappointing performance in recent Pro Hockey League matches. According to sources close to Sharif, who expressed intense dissatisfaction with the team’s results and particularly during their tour of Australia, a formal inquiry will be launched to investigate possible failures within the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF).

Officials have also begun planning for significant management changes at the federation level. A federal-level investigation has been initiated as part of this effort to establish accountability. The government is consulting legal experts from its Inter-Provincial Coordination Ministry and senior lawyers to ensure transparency in the inquiry process.

Prime Minister Sharif made it clear that negligence in hockey affairs will not be tolerated, and strict actions are expected if lapses are confirmed. Discussions are underway regarding the potential resignation of the PHF president and other key officials. The ministry has been directed to proceed with a thorough probe into the matter.

Sources indicated that government support and concessions have not yet translated into improved facilities for national players under the current PHF leadership, which is seen as another factor contributing to the team’s struggles. As part of this investigation, replacements for key positions could be considered if they are deemed necessary during the restructuring process.

The Prime Minister’s move comes at a critical juncture for Pakistan hockey, where the sport has experienced prolonged decline and lost much of its former glory. His directive represents an urgent push to restore the federation’s credibility and ensure that government support translates into tangible improvements in player welfare and performance.

While official investigations are ongoing, officials emphasize that all possible measures will be taken to revitalize the sport and reclaim its position as Pakistan’s national treasure. The timing of key decisions remains uncertain until after the investigation is completed.