The federal government has barred Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) from participating in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup Hockey tournament that will be held in Ipoh, Malaysia, from November 16-25, reported 24NewsHD TV channel Tuesday.

Pakistan hockey team cannot proceed to an international tour without the Interior Ministry’s NOC that is issued on the recommendation of Pakistan Sports Board (PSB).

In this regard, the PHF had approached the PSB for the NOC for the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup. But, PSB had directed PHF not to move any further regarding participation in Azlan Shah Hockey till the time the Prime Minister’s appointed 3-member committee decides on the future formation of the federation. Federal Defence Minister Khawaja Mohammad Asif is the convener of the committee.

According to the sources, the government is in the process of finalising future hockey functioning in the country.

Till that time the committee decides on the future formation of the hockey federation, no administrative or financial favours will be extended to the PHF. NOC will not be given to any person or team related to hockey till the decision of the committee, it adds.

Reporter: Shahbaz Ali