Tariq Bugti formally stepped down as President of the Pakistan Hockey Federation and sent his resignation to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. His decision came at a sensitive time, with the national side preparing for crucial matches.
In his farewell remarks, Bugti defended his two-year tenure and pointed to an improvement in rankings. He said Pakistan moved from 18th to 13th in the world, calling it a collective achievement made during his leadership of the Pakistan hockey team captain, Ammad Butt era.
Bugti also thanked the military leadership, especially Asim Munir, for support. He praised the civilian government as well, revealing that the prime minister approved and released Rs250,000,000 for hockey activities during his term, which he described as critical help.
However, he admitted that financial and administrative problems remained. Bugti blamed the Pakistan Sports Board for issues during the Australia tour, saying the federation lacked enough funds to handle everything on its own.
He said these problems also affected the Pakistan hockey team captain, Ammad Butt situation.
Despite stepping down, Bugti expressed hope for the squad’s future. He said the team would perform well in the upcoming qualifiers and confirmed that tour and match schedules had already been shared with the Sports Board through Rana Mujahid. He again mentioned confidence in the Pakistan hockey team captain, Ammad Butt and the players.
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In a strong closing note, Bugti called for an independent inquiry into what he described as “privilege indiscipline.” He urged the prime minister and army chief to form a committee and ensure punishment for anyone found guilty. This demand comes as scrutiny around the Pakistan hockey team captain; Ammad Butt continues to grow.
Separately, the PHF announced strict action against men’s team captain Ammad Shakeel Butt, handing him a two-year ban, a move that has further fueled debate within Pakistan hockey circles.
