Injured Pakistani hockey player Abubakar Mahmood has expressed his frustration over a knee injury he sustained during the Asian Hockey Champions Trophy, attributing his situation to negligence from both the authorities and the hockey federation.
Despite being injured while representing Pakistan against India, he claims that no arrangements have been made for his treatment.
Abubakar was seriously injured during a group stage match, impacting the team’s performance in the semi-finals due to his absence. Although Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) President Tariq Bugti assured him that his treatment would be facilitated, no concrete steps have been taken so far.
Additionally, Rana Mashhood, Chairman of the Prime Minister Youth Programme, promised treatment during a video call, but nothing has materialized since his return.
Currently, the PHF has cited a lack of funds and advised Abubakar to start his treatment independently, promising reimbursement once finances are available. The vice-captain of the hockey team wishes to undergo surgery abroad but lacks the necessary funds for the procedure.
The delay in treatment raises concerns about potential complications from his injury. In response, PHF Secretary Rana Mujahid stated that “the federation (PHF) president has sent a letter to the prime minister requesting funds for Abu Bakar’s treatment, and we hope to see a progress on this matter soon.”