Pakistan hockey captain Ammad Butt has called on the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) to honour its commitments in order to restore players’ confidence ahead of the Asia Cup 2025.
Speaking to media in Lahore, Butt said: "The upcoming tournament as an important one, noting that the national side’s preparations are progressing well."
He stated that the PHF had consulted the government regarding participation in the Asia Cup, and affirmed that the team would act in accordance with the government’s decision.
Raising security concerns, the captain said that travelling to India under the current circumstances posed a risk to the team.
Butt criticised the federation for its failure to clear outstanding payments to players, stressing that unmet promises were undermining morale. He urged the PHF to fulfil its obligations without delay.
Addressing the recent leak of an audio recording attributed to him, Butt said the matter should be taken seriously as it reflected broader issues facing the sport.
Despite the challenges, the captain expressed confidence in the squad’s strength, stating that Pakistan’s bench was capable of overcoming any opponent.
He appealed to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to revive the sports sector, emphasising the need to create employment opportunities for athletes.
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