By P. Chandra Sagaran

The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) is considering inviting players from Asian countries to play in the Pakistan Super League (PSL). 

Its president Tariq Masoori Bugti who was nominated by the Prime Minister to head PHF then sought the vote of confidence of the federation’s congress said – “Having talented players from Asia competing in the league will help in the development of hockey in the country. 

” I am giving serious thought on the matter and will discuss PHF committee members upon returning after the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup competition. 

“There are no security issues as many teams from different countries play in our country. Recently the New Zealand cricket team played a five-match T20 series without any issue,” he added. 

Tariq Bugti is accompanying the national team to the Sultan Azlan Cup in Ipoh from May 4 to 11.

Meanwhile, Malaysia got on the wrong footing when they were edged 4-5 by Pakistan in the Sultan Azlan Cup match Saturday.

The host nation coached by Sarjit Singh now have to beat Canada to keep their hopes alive to defend their title which they won in 2023. 

For the record Canada was thrashed 1-7 by New Zealand.  In the opening game Japan defeated Korea 2-1.