Zaman’s coaching stint in doubt, PHF eyes foreign coach

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) is reportedly preparing to bring in a foreign head coach for the national team amid growing uncertainty surrounding current coach Tahir Zaman, who has developed serious differences with federation officials over disciplinary issues.

Tahir, who has been leading the national side for over a year, was reportedly displeased with a group of players who joined the training camp late for the upcoming three-match World Cup qualifying series against Bangladesh. According to sources, players Rana Waheed and Hammaduddin, along with six others, were directed to report to the Islamabad camp after completing their European Club League commitments by October 28.

While most players returned by October 31, Rana and Hammad were the last to arrive, prompting Tahir to recommend their exclusion from the Bangladesh tour as a disciplinary measure. The PHF, however, decided against the move, citing the players’ importance to the squad and noting that others had also reported late.

“Tahir Zaman insisted on strict discipline and wanted to set an example, but the federation chose leniency, arguing that it would be unfair to single out just two players,” said a source within the team currently in Bangladesh. “When the PHF refused to drop them, Tahir chose not to travel with the squad.”

The standoff now appears to have reached a point of no return. Sources suggest Tahir is unlikely to rejoin the team even after the Bangladesh series, despite efforts to mediate between him and the federation.

Pakistan’s immediate calendar includes friendlies against Spain later this month and the FIH Pro League campaign starting in early December, followed by crucial assignments such as the World Cup qualifiers and the Asian Games next year.

Given these high-stakes events, the PHF has reportedly initiated the search for a high-profile foreign coach to guide the national team through its critical international commitments.

“We need a strong and well-disciplined unit for the challenges ahead,” said a source within the team management. “The PHF believes a foreign coach could bring the professionalism, discipline, and tactical depth required to make Pakistan competitive again on the global stage.”