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LAHORE: Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) on Tuesday announced a comprehensive restructuring of its coaching departments, appointing new management panels for the senior, junior, and under-18 national teams.
The appointments were approved by PHF President Mohyuddin Ahmed Wani, following recommendations from the Professional Development Committee.
The overhaul brings back several legendary Olympians to lead the country’s efforts in reclaiming its status in international hockey.
The PHF stated that the inclusion of decorated former players like Shakeel Abbasi and Umar Bhutta, who have only recently retired, is intended to bridge the gap between modern playing styles and traditional Pakistani hockey skills.
The federation remains under pressure to improve the national team’s world ranking and ensure qualification for upcoming major global events. These panels are expected to begin training camps across the country immediately.
The new management structure is as follows:
1. Pakistan senior national team: Manzoor-ul-Hassan (head coach);
Support staff: Khawaja Junaid, Waseem Ahmed, Shakeel Abbasi, Adnan Zakir (all assistant coaches), Mazhar Abbas (goalkeeping coach)
2. Pakistan Junior Team
Ayaz Mahmood (head coach); Support staff: Sameer Hussain, Azfar Yaqoob, Imran Butt (assistant coaches)
3. Pakistan Youth (Under-18) Team
Qamar Ibrahim (head coach), Support staff: Rehan Butt, Umar Bhutta, Yasir Islam (assistant coaches)
