PSB Begins Nationwide Scrutiny of Hockey Clubs

ISLAMABAD (Web Desk) – The Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) has launched a nationwide scrutiny of hockey clubs ahead of the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) elections, aiming to ensure transparency, credibility, and fairness.

A PSB spokesperson clarified that the process is entirely impartial, based solely on merit, documentary evidence, and verification criteria. “The impression that PSB supports any individual or group is misleading,” the spokesperson said, adding that this is the first time in Pakistan’s hockey history that such a systematic and verifiable scrutiny is being conducted.

During the initial review of 1,156 registered clubs, 883 were found prima facie eligible, meeting the minimum requirement of 14 players aged 14–30. The remaining 273 clubs were declared prima facie ineligible due to insufficient players or age non-compliance.

Further scrutiny revealed that 19 out of 85 districts previously deemed eligible to vote in the PHF Congress did not meet the minimum threshold of five registered clubs, highlighting the thoroughness of the process.

Pakistan Hockey Captain Urges PHF to Fulfil Promises Ahead of Asia Cup 2025

The next phase involves physical verification of clubs starting January 17, 2026, at Naseer Banda Hockey Stadium, Islamabad. Clubs with discrepancies will have the opportunity to submit objections or appeals, which will be resolved by a designated Panel of Adjudicators to ensure fairness and prevent politically motivated complaints.