How can we play after cleaning toilets: Pakistan hockey captain Butt slams PHF over Australia tour mismanagement

Pakistan men’s hockey team captain Ammad Shakeel Butt has accused the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) and team management of mismanagement and mental harassment during the FIH Men’s Pro League 2025-26 Hobart leg in Australia, reports ANI. He claimed players faced inadequate accommodation and were forced to perform menial tasks during the tour.

Reports emerged that the Pakistani players were unable to access proper accommodation in Australia after the PHF allegedly failed to settle hotel bills. Speaking at a press conference at Lahore Airport, Butt confirmed the reports and said the players had to wash their own clothes, clean toilets, and handle kitchen duties before matches.

“These are the boys who work strenuously for the sake of their country. How can restrictions be imposed upon them? And, how can they play after cleaning toilets and washing kitchenware?” Butt said, as quoted by Geo News.

Allegations of psychological pressure and divide within team

Butt also accused the team management of creating mental strain, limiting player access to food and nutrition within a $115 budget, and attempting to divide the team by asking players whether they supported the federation or the captain. He insisted the team remained united behind him.

“We were told not to speak to the media or face a ban. I do not accept the PHF's code of conduct. I am under no pressure,” Butt added.

Pakistan Sports Board confirms PHF lapses

Noorish Sabah, Director General of the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB), said the board had arranged and paid for hotel bookings in Australia, but the PHF later cancelled them. She said the treatment of national-level athletes was unacceptable and promised a comprehensive inquiry report to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

“The team management lied to us. If food and accommodation are not up to standard, performance will inevitably suffer,” Noorish said, urging higher authorities to address the issue.

Butt confident about World Cup, calls for foreign coach

Despite the controversy, Butt expressed confidence in the team’s potential for the 2026 World Cup and the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics. He emphasized that a foreign coach was essential to help the team regain competitiveness and professional standards.