The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has appointed experienced forward Abu Bakar Mahmood as the new captain of the national men’s hockey team ahead of the upcoming FIH World Cup.
He replaces midfielder Ammad Butt, who had been leading the national side and will continue to represent Pakistan as a senior player.
According to a statement issued by the federation, PHF President Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani approved the appointment on the recommendation of the Professional Development Committee, comprising former Olympians Islahuddin Siddiqui and Hassan Sardar.
“The President Pakistan Hockey Federation Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani, 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 PHF said.
The federation also acknowledged Butt’s services to Pakistan hockey.
“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 statement added.
Butt recently led Pakistan to its first FIH World Cup qualification since 2018 after the national side finished as runner-up at the global qualifiers in March.
The captaincy change comes after Pakistan endured a winless FIH Pro League campaign, losing all 16 matches.
It has also been announced just over two weeks before the FIH World Cup, which will be played in the Netherlands and Belgium from August 15 to 30.
Pakistan will begin its campaign against England on the opening day of the tournament before facing Wales on August 17.
The Green Shirts will then take on traditional rivals India in their final group-stage match on August 19.
Get the latest sports news, match updates, and player stories wherever you prefer.
Add ProPakistani to Preferred Sources and see more of our stories in Google Search and Top Stories.
Shares
