Pakistan Hockey Team Faces Turmoil with Coaching Changes Ahead of Major Tournaments

The Pakistan hockey team is in turmoil following the unexpected departure of head coach Colin Batch, replaced by Manzoor ul Hasan. Players are expressing their shock and concern over the decision, especially with major tournaments on the horizon. This coaching shake-up comes after a previous controversy regarding unpaid hotel bills during their stay in Australia. As the team grapples with these changes, several players are considering appealing to the PHF President to reinstate a foreign coach. The situation raises questions about the team's future performance in upcoming competitions.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 8, 2026, 20:59 IST

Crisis Hits Pakistan Hockey Team

The Pakistan hockey team has recently been in the spotlight for negative reasons. Following the controversy regarding unpaid hotel bills in Australia, which forced players to find alternative accommodations and manage their own meals, the team is now facing another significant issue. Just as they were regaining momentum after qualifying for the Men's Hockey World Cup for the first time in eight years, a shake-up in the coaching staff has left players dissatisfied.

The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has confirmed the exit of Australian head coach Colin Batch, who led the team to World Cup qualification. He has been succeeded by former Olympian Manzoor ul Hasan, just ahead of two crucial competitions: the FIH Pro Nations League and the Men's Hockey World Cup. Despite Manzoor's esteemed reputation as a defender from the 1970s and 80s, his appointment has taken the players by surprise.

'A Recipe for Disaster'

Sources close to the team have indicated that the players are shocked by this decision. They had developed a strong rapport with Batch, appreciating his coaching credentials and understanding of contemporary hockey strategies. One anonymous player expressed his discontent, labeling the change as a 'recipe for disaster.' He stated, 'We were all pleased that Colin Batch, a qualified coach familiar with modern hockey needs, would lead us in these significant events, including the World Cup, and now we face this unexpected change.'

In light of this abrupt shift, several players currently competing in foreign leagues are reportedly considering appealing directly to the interim PHF President, urging him to reinstate a foreign coach.

Further Changes in Pakistan Hockey

A notification from the PHF indicated that these changes were made based on recommendations from the PHF Professional Development Committee, which includes renowned former captains Hasan Sardar and Islahuddin Siddiqui. In addition to the head coach's appointment, the interim PHF has introduced a new National Selection Committee, led by celebrated Olympian Samiullah Khan. Other committee members include Naeem Akhtar, Kashif Jawad, Muhammad Khalid, Nasir Ali, and Atif Bashir. Furthermore, Ayaz Mahmood has been appointed as the head coach of the Pakistan junior men's team.