Pakistan's men's hockey team endured a chaotic start to their FIH Pro League campaign in Australia after being left without hotel accommodation upon arrival in Canberra, reportedly due to unpaid bills by the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF).
The squad travelled nearly 24 hours from Lahore to Australia's capital ahead of the second leg of the Pro League. However, when the players and support staff reached the designated four-star hotel, they were informed that no booking existed in their name.
According to sources quoted by PTI, the team had been assured that the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) and PHF had made all upfront payments for their stay. But on arrival, hotel management stated that the payments had not been cleared, leading to the cancellation
of their reservation.
With luggage in tow, players and officials were forced to wait outside the hotel premises for nearly five to six hours while efforts were made to resolve the situation. Head coach Tahir Zaman reportedly struggled to contact PHF and PSB officials back home due to the time difference, informing them of the team's predicament.
Eventually, emergency funds were arranged through the board and members of the Pakistani community in Australia, allowing the team to secure last-minute accommodation at the same hotel. However, due to limited availability, fewer rooms were allotted than originally planned. As a result, two to three players had to share a single room.
The logistical turmoil came just hours before Pakistan's opening match against Australia, which they lost 3-2. The defeat continued a difficult run for the side, who have now lost all six matches in this year's international season.
The incident has once again brought the financial struggles of the PHF into focus, raising concerns over administrative preparedness as the team competes against top nations, including Germany and Australia, in the Pro League.
