PHF criticised for arranging substandard lodging despite advance payment

The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has come under criticism for providing substandard accommodation to the national hockey team during their Pro Hockey League tour of Australia, despite advance payments made for proper lodging.

According to an inquiry report submitted by the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) to the Prime Minister, the PHF had requested that the team be accommodated at the DoubleTree by Hilton hotel in Australia. The PSB paid $49,280 in advance to cover the hotel booking.

In addition, $1,610 per player was provided to cover meal costs and potential delays during the tour. Despite these payments, the team reportedly stayed in alternative accommodation that did not meet the requested standards.

The PSB report notes that arranging a hotel other than the one requested, after receiving full payment, is considered inappropriate and reflects poorly on the PHF’s management.

The inquiry has sparked discussions about accountability within the federation, with calls for stricter oversight of how tour arrangements are handled for national teams.