Pakistani hockey participant coated Japanese participant within the floor throughout FIH Nations Cup in Kuala Lumpur, June 16, 2025. — X/@HokitaMY
Whereas Pakistani officers proceed to say that the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) is involved with the Worldwide Hockey Federation (FIH) concerning participation within the FIH Professional League, an FIH official has said that no formal invitation has been prolonged to any workforce to exchange New Zealand at this stage.
On Thursday, the PHF secretary spoke to the media alongside Pakistan Sports activities Board (PSB) officers, discussing the potential for Pakistan’s participation within the Professional League and the required funds. He added that the PHF is in contact with the FIH on the matter.
FIH Senior Communications Supervisor Nicolas Maingot additionally dismissed studies of Pakistan being invited to the event as “untrue.”
“The process is as follows: The winners of the Nations Cup get the opportunity to join the Pro League for the next season. However, if that team declines, then the runner-up gets the opportunity,” Maingot defined.
“At the moment, we are not at that stage,” the FIH spokesperson added.
Reviews recommend that as a result of authorities funding cuts, New Zealand could also be unable to take part within the FIH Professional League, as that they had additionally withdrawn from the earlier version.
It’s understood that whereas no official invitation has been prolonged, there might have been preliminary discussions on the management stage to gauge Pakistan’s readiness in case New Zealand declines participation.
In the meantime, the secretary of Pakistan Hockey Federation Rana Mujahid has confirmed whereas chatting with Geo’s programme ‘Rating’ that FIH has, for now, requested Pakistan’s availability in case New Zealand pulls out.
“FIH asked us if we would be available and we have replied positively, while we are discussing our possibilities, we have also sought a response from FIH on New Zealand’s final stance on the matter so that we can be in position to make any decision on this,” he mentioned.
