Abu Bakar Named Pakistan Hockey Captain as PHF Removes Ammad Butt From the Role

LAHORE: PHF removes Ammad Butt from captaincy less than three weeks before Pakistan begin their campaign at the FIH Hockey World Cup, with forward Abu Bakar Mahmood appointed to lead the national men's team. 

The decision was approved by Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani, president of the Pakistan Hockey Federation, following recommendations from the federation's Professional Development Committee.

The committee, which includes former Pakistan captains Islahuddin Siddiqui and Hassan Sardar, backed the leadership change as preparations enter their final phase. While Abu Bakar will captain the side at the World Cup, Ammad Butt will remain part of the squad in a senior playing role.

In announcing the appointment, the federation also acknowledged Ammad's contribution to the national team over the past 14 years.

“The President Pakistan Hockey Federation, Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani (PHF), on the recommendation of the Professional Development Committee comprising Mr Islahuddin Siddiqui and Mr Hassan Sardar, has appointed Mr Abu Bakar as the new captain of the Pakistan national hockey team.”

The statement also paid tribute to the outgoing captain.

“He succeeds Mr Ammad Butt, who has served Pakistan hockey with distinction for the past 14 years. The PHF expresses its deep appreciation for Ammad Butt’s commitment to the national team. He will continue to remain a member of the Pakistan squad as a senior player.”

Pakistan now turn their attention to the World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the Netherlands and Belgium from August 15 to 30. Their campaign begins against England on the opening day before a second group-stage fixture against Wales men's national field hockey team on August 17.

The captaincy change comes after a mixed year for Pakistan hockey. Under Ammad's leadership, Pakistan secured qualification for the World Cup by finishing runners-up in the qualifying tournament, ending the country's absence from the competition since 2018. 

That achievement, however, was followed by a difficult FIH Pro League campaign in which the team failed to record a victory across 16 matches.

Also read: Where to watch FIH Hockey World Cup in Pakistan.