The PHF has not been invited to the Azlan Shah Cup due to alleged outstanding debts with the MHF. Rana Mujahid, the PHF secretary, refutes these claims and asserts that there is no formal notification regarding any debts. Pakistan had previously excelled in the 2024 edition of the Cup but will miss the tournament in 2025, along with Japan, leading to significant disappointment within the federation.
The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has expressed disappointment as Pakistan has not been invited to participate in the upcoming Azlan Shah Cup due to an alleged ‘outstanding debt’ with the Malaysian Hockey Federation (MHF). A source from PHF indicated that poor decisions made by a former official led to this financial obligation, resulting in Pakistan’s exclusion from the tournament in November 2025. Notably, Japan also withdrew from the event due to prior commitments.
Rana Mujahid, the secretary of the PHF, has dismissed these claims of outstanding debt, advising that the public should not rely on rumors. He emphasized that no official communication regarding any debts has been received from the MHF. This response highlights the disconnect between the PHF’s assertions and the allegations regarding financial irresponsibility.
In the previous edition of the Azlan Shah Cup, held in 2024, Pakistan performed commendably, finishing as finalists after securing three wins and two draws, although they lost to Japan in the final match. The absence of Pakistan in the upcoming tournament is a disheartening outcome for the federation after such a notable performance last year. Other participating nations for the tournament will include Belgium, India, Germany, Malaysia, Ireland, and Canada, all vying for the prestigious trophy.
In conclusion, the refusal of the MHF to invite Pakistan to the Azlan Shah Cup is reportedly linked to outstanding debts attributed to prior management decisions within the PHF. However, Rana Mujahid, the PHF secretary, has countered these claims, insisting that the federation is not in debt. This situation has raised concerns over Pakistan’s international hockey standing, particularly after their strong showing in the last tournament, rendering their absence in 2025 even more regrettable.
Original Source: www.republicworld.com
