Pakistan hockey names Samiullah chief selector in revival push

The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has appointed Flying Horse Samiullah as the chief selector of the Pakistan Men’s Hockey Team, the federation announced in an official press release on Wednesday.

The appointment, recommended by the PHF Professional Development Committee comprising Olympians Hasan Sardar and Islahuddin Siddiqui, forms part of the PHF’s broader strategy to revitalise hockey in Pakistan. The federation said its comprehensive Hockey Roadmap focuses on grassroots development, high-performance training, and enhancing international competitiveness.

Key measures include establishing a structured team management system with a Selection Committee, Head Coach, and support staff, creating a calendar of domestic and international competitions, providing technical education for coaches, umpires, and officials, and conducting talent hunt drives to identify young players.

The PHF also plans to promote hockey at schools and colleges, revive inter-school and inter-collegiate competitions, and establish a high-performance centre to support player development.

“We are committed to taking Pakistan hockey to new heights,” PHF President said. “With Samiullah at the helm as Chief Selector, we are confident that our team will regain its former glory.” The federation added that it looks forward to working with stakeholders, sponsors, and the hockey community to implement the roadmap and restore Pakistan’s status as a hockey powerhouse.

It is worth mentioning here that, the PHF is undergoing a major overhaul and has removed former Olympians from administrative management, appointing technocrats to its key positions in a bid to professionalise the sport.

Currently, Mohiyuddin Wani is handling PHF matters in an ad hoc capacity as president. He has delegated the responsibilities of secretary general to Brigadier (retd) Akmal Aziz.

The post of treasurer has been filled by Captain (retd) Farukh Atiq Khan, who has also been appointed head of the Pakistan hockey team travelling to Egypt for the World Cup qualifier.

Officials noted that former Olympians struggled with managing administrative affairs. Conflicts among former heroes, personal interests, alleged corruption, politicisation of the sport, and decisions made outside merit have all contributed to the decline of Pakistan hockey.

Following these challenges, the PHF has introduced a professional governance model for the first time. An Adhoc Governance and Management Committee has been formed to oversee the federation’s administration, while a Professional Development Committee, co-chaired by Olympians Hassan Sardar and Islahuddin, will manage technical matters such as national team selection, specialised training, and setting benchmarks for coaches and players.