Just hours before a crucial series against Bangladesh, the National Hockey Team is grappling with internal strife, as the sudden unavailability of Head Coach Tahir Zaman has led to deep disappointment and concern among the players. The series carries immense weight, serving as a qualifying stage for the World Cup Qualifiers, which amplifies the seriousness of the dispute.
Sources close to the players informed Al Jazeera that the squad feels the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) and Tahir Zaman should have resolved their differences amicably in the national interest. The lack of clarity in the situation right up until the team’s departure has had a negative impact on team morale.
The conflict stemmed from the Head Coach’s insistence on taking disciplinary action against two players who reported late to the training camp. According to sources, the coach demanded that these players be dropped, but PHF officials intervened, advising against dropping them before such an important series and instead suggesting a fine for all latecomers.
A faction of the players expressed the view that Tahir Zaman should have shown flexibility and prioritized the country over internal disagreements at this sensitive time. Sources also indicated that the team benefits significantly from the coach’s presence. However, as the conflict escalated between PHF officials and the coach, Tahir Zaman stepped down, and Muhammad Usman was appointed as the Head Coach for the Bangladesh tour.
The upheaval appears long-term: sources confirmed that Tahir Zaman will also not be available for the upcoming tour of Spain. Following this crisis, the PHF has indicated its intention to hire a foreign coach for the subsequent Pro Hockey League, signaling a major potential shift in the management of national hockey.
The crucial series between Pakistan and Bangladesh is set to begin on November 13 in Dhaka, where the winning team will secure its eligibility to compete in the World Cup Qualifiers.
