Pakistani hockey players deny PHF claims of seeking political asylum in Europe

Three Pakistani hockey players and an official have denied seeking political asylum in Europe, countering claims made by the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF).

According to close sources, the players, Murtaza Yaqoob, Ehtisham Aslam, and forward Abdul Rehman Jr., along with physio Dr. Waqas stated they neither requested asylum nor applied for it.

Instead, they went to Europe after participating in the Nations Cup to play five matches, and their club later offered them further contracts, promising temporary residency cards.

The players' sources further clarified that they are not involved in any other jobs in Europe but are solely focused on playing hockey.

They emphasised that if they had intended to leave the country, they could have done so earlier.

Earlier, PHF Secretary Rana Mujahid claimed that the players had informed the federation of their unavailability for the Asian Champions Trophy but did not disclose their plans to play matches or leagues in Europe.

Mujahid added that the federation is considering imposing lifetime bans on the players and officials, and actions are being taken through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to cancel their passports.