LAHORE: The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has announced a major leadership change ahead of the upcoming FIH World Cup, removing experienced midfielder Ammad Butt as captain of the national men’s team and appointing forward Abu Bakar Mahmood as his successor.
The decision was confirmed by the federation on Wednesday, bringing an end to Ammad’s 14-year tenure as captain of the national side.
According to the PHF, the appointment of Abu Bakar Mahmood was approved by President Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani on the recommendation of the federation’s Professional Development Committee, which includes former Pakistan hockey greats, Islahuddin Siddiqui and Hassan Sardar.
In an official statement, the PHF acknowledged Ammad Butt’s long-standing contribution to Pakistan hockey while confirming that he will continue to be part of the national squad as a senior player.
“The President Pakistan Hockey Federation, Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani (PHF), on the recommendation of the Professional Development Committee comprising Mr Islahuddin Siddiqui and Mr Hassan Sardar, has appointed Mr Abu Bakar as the new captain of the Pakistan national hockey team,” the federation said.
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The statement further praised Ammad’s services to the national team.
“He succeeds Mr Ammad Butt, who has served Pakistan hockey with distinction for the past 14 years. The PHF expresses its deep appreciation for Ammad Butt’s commitment to the national team. He will continue to remain a member of the Pakistan squad as a senior player.”
The leadership change comes despite Ammad recently guiding Pakistan to a significant milestone. Earlier this year, he captained the national side to a runners-up finish in the FIH Hockey World Cup qualifiers, securing Pakistan’s place at the World Cup for the first time since 2018.
However, the decision follows a disappointing FIH Pro League campaign in which Pakistan failed to register a single victory, losing all 16 of their matches during the tournament.
The timing of the move is notable, with the FIH Hockey World Cup set to begin in just over two weeks. The tournament will be jointly hosted by the Netherlands and Belgium from August 15 to 30.
Pakistan will open their World Cup campaign against England on the opening day of the tournament before facing Wales in their second group-stage fixture on August 17.
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