ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): 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 PHF Professional Development Committee comprising Olympians Hasan Sardar and Islahuddin Siddiqui has recommended the appointment, which 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.
Pakistan Hockey Federation
The hockey federation 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 further said 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.
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.
In response to recent setbacks, the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has launched its inaugural professional governance model.
An Adhoc Governance and Management Committee will now direct administrative operations, while a Professional Development Committee—led by Olympian co-chairs Hassan Sardar and Islahuddin—will oversee technical functions, including national team selection, advanced training, and performance standards.
