By Nawaz Gohar ;  A resurgence is brewing in Pakistan hockey. After a flawless, unbeaten run through the pool stages of the FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup Qualifier, the Green Shirts stand on the precipice of a return to the world stage. For Captain Ammad Butt, the mission is simple: one more win to restore national pride.

The “Men in Green” arrived in the knockout stage with a perfect record, dispatching China, Malaysia, and Austria with a blend of tactical discipline and the classic flair that once defined the sport in Pakistan. Now, only a formidable Japanese side stands between them and a ticket to the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup.

Speaking from the team’s base in Ismailia, Ammad Butt struck a balance between satisfaction and steely focus. “Winning all three pool matches has provided us with immense momentum, and the performance of the boys has been incredibly encouraging,” Ammad shared in an exclusive video message.

“However, the past is behind us. Friday’s semifinal is a knockout. There is no room for error. We must win to ensure our place in the World Cup and present this achievement as a gift to our nation.”

The road to this qualifier was not without its hurdles, but Ammad was quick to credit the revitalized support system back home. He expressed deep gratitude toward Chairman PCB Mohsin Naqvi and the Government of Pakistan for their intervention during a turbulent period for the federation.

“The support from the government and the PHF has been vital. Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, in particular, has stood by us, ensuring the players were facilitated in the best possible way. We are responding to that trust on the field,” the skipper remarked.

Ammad also highlighted the “positive ecosystem” created by the management. Under the guidance of Head Coach Khawaja Junaid and Team Manager Olympian Tahir Sultan, the squad has transformed into a cohesive unit.

“The atmosphere is electric. From the coaching staff to the team doctor from the Pakistan Sports Board, everyone is pulling in the same direction,” Ammad noted. “The players have worked tirelessly for this moment. Morale is at an all-time high.”

The stakes could not be higher. With two qualifying tournaments running simultaneously in Ismailia and Santiago, the top three finishers here will secure direct entry to the World Cup in Belgium and the Netherlands.

As Pakistan prepares for the tactical challenge posed by Japan, the nation holds its breath. “We are just one step away,” Ammad concluded with an appeal to the fans. “I request the entire nation to pray for us. We will give everything on the pitch to make Pakistan proud once again.”

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Hockey captain Ammad Butt slams inept officials after Australia tour

By Nawaz Gohar ; The captain of Pakistan’s national hockey team, Ammad Butt, has launched a scathing critique of the team’s management, citing severe professional negligence and mistreatment during their recent participation in the Pro Hockey League in Australia.

Upon the team’s arrival at Lahore Airport, Captain Ammad Butt, flanked by his teammates, told the media that the current management had consistently misled the players. He explicitly stated that the team could no longer function under the present leadership.

The captain revealed distressing details regarding the team’s stay in Australia, where players were reportedly subjected to conditions far below international standards. Sources indicate that players were cramped into small rooms, with three athletes sharing a single room, leading to significant discomfort and a lack of proper rest.

“Our players were forced to prepare their own breakfast and wash their own dishes,” Butt revealed. “When athletes are denied basic rest and essential facilities, how can they be expected to perform at the highest level? To reform Pakistan Hockey, we must bring in educated individuals who prioritize merit.”

Addressing rumors regarding the conduct of the players, Butt clarified that while there was a heated exchange due to the circumstances, claims of players verbally abusing the management were inaccurate.

He praised his team’s resilience, stating he was immensely proud of their performance despite the hostile administrative environment.

Taking swift notice of the captain’s public outcry and media reports, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has ordered an immediate high-level investigation into the matter. A spokesperson for the Sports Board confirmed that the inquiry has commenced under the Prime Minister’s directives to identify those responsible for the mismanagement.

The Prime Minister emphasized that no compromise will be made regarding the dignity and well-being of national athletes. He further directed relevant authorities to take strict disciplinary action if negligence or administrative failure is proven.

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By Nawaz Gohar ; National hockey team captain Ammad Butt has issued a strong response to baseless news and negative propaganda circulating in sections of the media.

Denying the rumors, Captain Ammad Butt clarified that the national team remains fully united and takes immense pride in representing Pakistan on the international stage. He emphasized that the players are committed to bringing glory to the country and stated that reports regarding internal disputes or issues within the team are completely devoid of reality.

“Wearing the national jersey is an honor for every player, and all team members are well aware of their responsibilities,” Ammad Butt added.

Simultaneously, the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has appealed to the media to play a constructive role. The federation stated that encouraging national heroes is the need of the hour, warning that unverified news can negatively impact the team’s morale.

The PHF demanded responsible journalism, noting that maintaining the high spirits of the national team is a shared responsibility. According to the federation, players are working tirelessly day and night to meet the nation’s expectations and should be provided with full support.

Ammad Butt concluded his message by appealing to hockey fans to stand by the team and encourage the players with a positive mindset so that Pakistan hockey can once again reclaim its prominent position at the global level.

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