PHF lifts two-year ban on hockey team captain Ammad Butt

Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) on Friday announced lifting of a two-year ban imposed on the national hockey team captain Ammad Butt by the PHF ex-president before tendering his resignation, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.

Announcing the decision, newly-appointed Interim President of Pakistan Hockey Federation Mohuddin Wani said that all stakeholders should join hands for the promotion of hockey.

Earlier on Thursday, the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) decided to impose a two-year ban on national hockey team captain Ammad Shakeel Butt for violating rules and regulations.

The development comes amid a major administrative crisis, as PHF President Tariq Hussain Bugti announced his resignation over the issue of poor accommodation provided to the national team during its Australia tour.

The disciplinary action has been taken over alleged violations of federation rules and regulations.

Addressing a news conference in Lahore, Tariq Hussain Bugti announced his resignation from the post of PHF president. He stated that he resigned on the orders of the prime minister.

Bugti held the Pakistan Sports Board fully responsible for the mismanagement that led to poor accommodation arrangements for the national hockey team in Australia.

Bugti said the PSB had funds available for the Pro Hockey League but failed to release payments required for the national team. He revealed that several contacts were made with the Pakistan Sports Board, but payments were not made despite repeated efforts.

Calling for accountability, Bugti urged institutions to conduct investigations to determine responsibility for the negligence.

Bugti expressed hope that the federation would soon stand on its own feet and that a new hockey board would be formed in the near future. 

Reporter: Hafiz Shahbaz