Pakistan hockey vice-captain Abu Bakar hopes for treatment funds following injury

Pakistan hockey player Abubakar Mahmood has revealed that he has been suffering from a knee injury due to the negligence of both the national authorities and the hockey federation. Despite sustaining the injury while representing Pakistan in the Asian Hockey Champions Trophy, no arrangements have been made for his treatment yet, according to Abubakar.

He was injured during a group stage match against India, which led to the team playing the semi-final without him. Following the injury, Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) President Tariq Bugti had promised to arrange treatment for Abubakar, but no action has been taken, sources claim. Additionally, Rana Mashhood, Chairman of the Prime Minister Youth Programme, also offered treatment via a video call, but no steps were taken once Abubakar returned.

The PHF has explained that they lack sufficient funds and has asked Abubakar to begin treatment on his own, with the assurance that the cost of surgery will be reimbursed once funds are available.

Abubakar, who is the vice-captain of the team, wishes to have surgery abroad but lacks the financial means to do so. The delay in treatment has raised concerns about potential complications with his injury. In response, PHF Secretary Rana Mujahid stated that they are making arrangements for a check-up and will send him abroad for treatment if necessary. He also mentioned that the PHF president has written a letter to the prime minister to request funds for Abubakar’s treatment, hoping for progress soon.