Turmoil in Pakistan Hockey: President Bugti's Resignation Amid Hotel Scandal

Pakistan Hockey Federation president Tariq Bugti resigned following a scandal during a tour in Australia. Bugti called for an inquiry into the incident, where players faced accommodation issues. A rift between Bugti and skipper Shakeel Ammad Butt emerged, compounded by administrative failures and financial disputes.


Devdiscourse News Desk | Karachi | Updated: 19-02-2026 15:20 IST | Created: 19-02-2026 15:20 IST
Turmoil in Pakistan Hockey: President Bugti's Resignation Amid Hotel Scandal
  • Country:
  • Pakistan

In a dramatic turn of events for Pakistan hockey, the president of the Pakistan Hockey Federation, Tariq Bugti, has stepped down following a controversial episode during the national team's tour of Australia earlier this month.

Bugti confirmed on Thursday that he submitted his resignation to Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif, urging an impartial inquiry into the tumultuous incident. The scandal erupted after footage emerged showing players stranded on Sydney streets with their luggage. Despite reassurances by captain Shakeel Ammad Butt that all was well, later revelations proved otherwise, exposing severe logistical issues.

The fallout has sparked a blame game between the PHF and the Pakistan Sports Board, with Bugti attributing the debacle to PSB's arrangements. Tensions further escalated when Bugti banned Butt for two years following his criticism of PHF. Amid team struggles and a winless record in the FIH Pro League, the turbulence promises more challenges ahead for Pakistan hockey.

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