Pakistan hockey captain Ammad Shakil Butt has been denied a United Kingdom visa. Consequently, he will miss the national team’s final leg of the FIH Pro League in England.
Pakistan will play its remaining four Pro League matches against India and England. The fixtures are scheduled from June 23 to June 27.
Visa Issues Create Uncertainty For Pakistan Squad
Reports said head coach Manzoor-ul-Hasan Senior has also not received his UK visa. Therefore, uncertainty continues ahead of Pakistan’s matches in England.
Pakistan is currently competing in Belgium during the penultimate stage of the tournament. So far, the national side has lost three of its first four matches.
According to reports, authorities refused Ammad’s visa because of an alleged overstay in England during 2022-23. His club had reportedly assured him that his visa would be extended.
However, the extension process was not completed in time. As a result, his stay allegedly exceeded the legal six-month limit.
Reports also claimed that Ammad later applied for asylum in the United Kingdom. However, authorities reportedly rejected the application.
PHF Faces Selection And Coaching Challenges
The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) reportedly tried to secure clearance for the captain. Nevertheless, the visa was not granted, and Ammad is expected to return home soon.
Sources said the federation is more concerned about the negative image created by the refusal. Meanwhile, officials believe the team’s recent performances reduce the impact of his absence.
If Manzoor-ul-Hasan Senior also fails to receive a visa, PHF Director High Performance Tahir Zaman is expected to lead the team in England. He has already travelled to Belgium to observe Pakistan’s ongoing Pro League matches.
Reports also highlighted internal tensions within Pakistan hockey involving Ammad and Tahir. Additionally, sources claimed Ammad sought assistance from federal ministers for his visa but received no positive response.
