International Hockey Federation (FIH) on Monday disallowed the Pakistan team to participate in Men's Hockey Junior World Cup 2016, which is being held in India from December 8 to 18, over Pakistan Hockey Federation's (PHF) inability to meet the deadlines.

FIH on Monday invited the Malaysian junior men’s team to take part in the event, replacing Pakistan, even though the green shirts had officially qualified.

The international body termed it PHF's fault as it failed to submit visa applications for Pakistani delegation before the official deadline and it's inability to confirm the delegation's accommodation venue before the deadline.

PHF Secretary Shehbaz Ahmed, while talking to DawnNews, termed the move 'pre-planned' and said, "Pakistan did not delay any schedule obligation and it is all India's fault to not issue visa to Pakistan's delegation before deadline."

"Our government had timely issued No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for players to take part in the tournament, but it is sad that Pakistan will not be able to take part in Junior Hockey World Cup," said Ahmed.

"We had planned training camps for our players so how can we delay any schedule to jeopardise our participation," he maintained.

"I had already seen it coming that this decision by FIH is going to go against Pakistan.”

Pakistan on November 19 had issued NOCs to the Pakistan Junior team for taking part in the Junior World Hockey Cup scheduled to be held in India from December 8 to 18.

PHF on November 16 had expressed reservations about India calling the shots in the world hockey and taking undue control to sideline Pakistan.

Opinion

Editorial

China security ties
Updated 14 Nov, 2024

China security ties

If China's security concerns aren't addressed satisfactorily, it may affect bilateral ties. CT cooperation should be pursued instead of having foreign forces here.
Steep price
14 Nov, 2024

Steep price

THE Hindu Kush-Himalayan region is in big trouble. A new study unveiled at the ongoing COP29 reveals that if high...
A high-cost plan
14 Nov, 2024

A high-cost plan

THE government has approved an expensive plan for FBR in the hope of tackling its deep-seated inefficiencies. The...
United stance
Updated 13 Nov, 2024

United stance

It would've been better if the OIC-Arab League summit had announced practical measures to punish Israel.
Unscheduled visit
13 Nov, 2024

Unscheduled visit

Unusual IMF visit shows the lender will closely watch implementation of programme goals to prevent it from derailing.
Bara’s businesswomen
13 Nov, 2024

Bara’s businesswomen

Bara’s brave women have proven that with the right support, societal barriers can be overcome.