Studio Hockey: International hockey 🏑

Without foundations hockey in Pakistan will continue to fail

Ernst Baart — Sat, 28 Feb 2026 11:36:57 GMT

After several years away from the world’s podium Pakistan was invited back into the fold of the Pro League by the FIH. Not because of any merit on the field. Main reasons are first and foremost financial and secondly emotional. I get it. Both make sense, even if as a true sports lover, you would say they have not earned their spot.

Even before they final…

China men hope to hit ascendancy under new coach Michel van den Heuvel

Jaspreet Singh — Mon, 18 Aug 2025 06:02:20 GMT

In July this year, the Chinese Hockey Association (CHA) made a strategic move to give the reins of their men’s team in the hands of coach Michel van den Heuvel after reportedly a call from the Chinese women’s team coach, Alyson Annan, went to the Dutchman.

Former Australia player Annan is regarded highly in the coaching circles. Along with fellow master tactician, Ric Charlesworth, she has turned China into a force in women’s hockey, which shows in their silver medal at the Paris Olympics. They are currently ranked fourth in the world.

It was on Annan’s recommendation that CHA agreed to look at the impressive resume of van den Heuvel and his appointment was announced on July 25.

Van den Heuvel coached the Netherlands’ men to a bronze medal at the 2010 World Cup, after which he became the Pakistan coach but had a turbulent time with them, eventually leaving the job in 2012. Later, he became Belgium’s assistant coach and went on to become their head coach.

Michel van den Heuvel - Photo by worldsportpics

Interestingly, one of the conditions of appointment put on the table by van den Heuvel was that he would continue to coach his Dutch club Bloemendaal.

EuroHockey starts today

Ernst Baart — Fri, 08 Aug 2025 12:21:58 GMT

A smile comes to my face automatically when the European Champions start. Together with the EHL, the HIL and obviously the World Cup and Olympic Games, these Euros are a guarantee for some quality hockey and excitement.

Last years ‘surprise” finalists England get the show going in a meetup with their groups outsider Poland. The Polish teams usually fare …

The Unconventional Lifeline

Studio Hockey — Tue, 05 Aug 2025 11:01:06 GMT

Prepare yourselves for a development that’s as intriguing as it is unexpected. Just when it seemed Pakistan's men's hockey team was poised to miss out on yet another elite international competition, a peculiar rumour has emerged from the depths of Pakistani sports administration: the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), yes, the cricket board, is reportedly stepping in to fund the Pakistan Hockey Federation’s (PHF) participation in the upcoming FIH Pro League. This isn't just an odd rumour; it's a potential game-changer, sparking conversations about inter-federation dynamics, financial struggles, and the future of hockey in Pakistan.

A Second Chance: How Pakistan Got Here

To understand the full weight of this potential intervention, we first need to rewind. Pakistan's hockey team recently found itself in the FIH Nations Cup final in Malaysia, where they faced New Zealand. Despite a valiant campaign, the final match saw New Zealand dominate, clinching the championship with a commanding 6-2 victory. Scott Cosslett netted two goals, including a penalty corner conversion, and Sam Hiha, Dylan Thomas, Sean Findlay, and Scott Boyde all contributed to New Zealand’s goal tally. Pakistan managed to respond with goals from Zikriya Hayat and Sufyan Khan, but it wasn't enough to turn the tide.

The Nations Cup triumph initially qualified New Zealand for the men’s elite FIH Pro League. However, in an unforeseen turn of events, New Zealand decided to withdraw from the next season of the Pro League due to undisclosed reasons, though sources suggest a "fund crunch". This withdrawal created a void, and the International Hockey Federation (FIH) extended a coveted invitation to Pakistan, acknowledging their runner-up finish in the Nations Cup.

This invitation is a massive opportunity for Pakistan hockey. The FIH Pro League is a "high-profile international competition featuring the top-ranked hockey teams from around the world". More critically, it serves as a "critical platform for teams to earn ranking points and even more, gain valuable experience against world-class opponents". For a team currently sitting well outside of the top 10 in the global rankings, and one that hasn't featured in recent editions of the league—a key factor behind their slide—this participation could mark a "major comeback" and is "expected to bolster the team’s performance and visibility on the global stage". The next edition of the FIH Pro League is slated to begin in February 2026.

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The Unprecedented Intervention: Cricket's Helping Hand?

Now, for the truly remarkable twist. While the invitation itself was a boost, the question of funding remained. Hockey federations globally often face financial challenges, and the PHF is no stranger to them, with reports mentioning frustrations among players over unpaid international allowances.

Enter the Pakistan Cricket Board. According to multiple sources, the PCB is reportedly stepping forward to fund Pakistan's participation in the upcoming FIH Pro League season. This isn't just about providing funds; it's about a complete takeover of financial and administrative responsibilities.

The most striking aspect of this proposed arrangement is that the PCB will handle everything with "no interference from the PHF".

The PCB plans to "deploy its own administrators" and potentially "contract event organisers" to manage all aspects, including monetary transactions related to Pakistan’s participation. This move is being interpreted as a "de facto takeover" of Pakistan’s Pro League campaign by the PCB, at least for the upcoming season.

Where are these funds coming from? In a fascinating repurposing of resources, the PCB's proposed funding will reportedly originate from government allocations meant for its own youth development program. An insider stated that the PCB would "release some of the funds it receives from the government for their youth programme, which can be used to help the hockey team’s needs for a full season of the Pro League". A PCB source has also confirmed this plan, stating, "Yes, PCB is going to come forward to help Pakistan hockey".

PHF's Predicament: Control vs. Necessity

This PCB intervention, while offering a lifeline, also puts the Pakistan Hockey Federation in a peculiar position. The PHF, led by President Mir Tariq Hussain Bugti and Secretary Rana Mujahid, officially remains the "nominal custodian of the sport".

However, sources suggest that they have been "actively trying to raise sponsorship funds to maintain control over the initiative". The reason is clear: if the PCB funds the Pro League, "PHF will have no control over financial transactions". This situation highlights a classic power tussle, with one group reportedly attempting to "oust the current leadership and regain control of hockey’s financial future". If the PCB directly manages the campaign, such "factional efforts may now be effectively sidelined".

The FIH has set a deadline of August 12 for Pakistan to officially respond to the invitation. However, the PHF is reportedly going to ask the FIH to extend this deadline to August 20. PHF President Mir Tariq Hussain Bugti has publicly confirmed ongoing discussions with government officials, expressing optimism for a state-funded solution. He also mentioned that the PHF has "sent a budget of 350 million rupees for the Pro League". The extension request likely stems from their hope to secure their own sponsors or government funds, thereby avoiding the loss of financial control that comes with PCB's involvement.

Implications and the Road Ahead

The potential intervention by the PCB is a complex issue with both significant advantages and underlying tensions.

On the positive side, it virtually guarantees Pakistan's participation in a crucial tournament, preventing the team from "missing a rare international opportunity". As the head coach has emphasized, there’s "no growth without tough opponents," making Pro League participation essential. This move is being hailed as a "groundbreaking development for Pakistan sport" and is "widely welcomed by fans of both sports". It offers a tangible path for Pakistan hockey to reclaim its standing on the global stage.

However, the arrangement also spotlights the PHF's financial instability and administrative challenges. The fact that a cricket board, albeit a financially stronger one, needs to step in, speaks volumes about the state of hockey funding in the country. The repurposing of youth program funds from cricket to hockey, while pragmatic, might raise questions about long-term sustainability and the autonomy of individual sports federations. The internal power struggle within the PHF, exacerbated by this external financial lifeline, adds another layer of complexity to the narrative.

The wait now is for the official announcement. Will the FIH grant the extension to August 20? Will the PHF manage to rope in its own sponsors or secure direct government funding to maintain control? Or will the PCB's unprecedented offer materialize, ushering in a new, albeit unconventional, era for Pakistan hockey?

Whatever the outcome, this fascinating development underscores the deep passion for sports in Pakistan and the lengths to which administrative bodies might go to ensure their teams compete at the highest level. For now, hockey fans can only watch and wonder as this unique saga unfolds.

Sources include:

Telecom Asia article by Jaspreet Singh

Musical chairs among international coaches

Ernst Baart — Thu, 19 Sep 2024 11:04:39 GMT

Following a major event we’re used to seeing many changes in coaching staff and player rosters.

Let’s take a look at some coaching changes announced…

Ehren appointed to the Dutch women

As announced earlier, following the decision of Raoul Ehren to terminate his ongoing contract with the Belgian federation, the Dutch coach has been announced formally today …

Raoul Ehren leaves Belgium to coach the Netherlands

Ernst Baart — Mon, 16 Sep 2024 16:14:59 GMT

Raou;l Eheren was the head coach of the legendary Dutch women’s club team of Den Bosch . A team with an incredible winners mentality for many generations already. But after winning it all with Den Bosch he needed an international challenge and found it with the neighbours in Belgium.

Raoul Ehren - credit worldsportpics

His appointment at the head of the B…

Alyson Annan about her Chinese women's team

Ernst Baart — Sat, 31 Aug 2024 08:22:15 GMT

Without a doubt the women from China were the suprise in these Paris Games. Until 4 minutes before the final whistle they were leading the Dutch in an Olympic final. I doubt you will find anyone who would be been so bold as to predict this.

Sure, there have been other teams showing you can make the mighty Dutch doubt…

Sure, China has been investing a lot…

Dutch women are looking for a new coach

Ernst Baart — Thu, 22 Aug 2024 16:03:35 GMT

The Dutch federation KNHB and Paul van Ass announce they will not renew their contract with together. Meaning the Dutch women will be looking for a new coach as of now.

Paul van Ass - credit worldsportpics

Just 2 weeks ago they won Olympic gold together in Paris and the 64 year old coach is telling hockey.nl without any regrets:

It doesn’t get any better t…

Orange gold

Ernst Baart — Fri, 09 Aug 2024 20:13:58 GMT

Their last gold medal dated from 24 years ago. In Paris the men in orange broke the deadlock and took home the gold beating Germany on shootouts. Pirmin Blaak showed great form during the entire tournament and was instrumental in winning gold, all during the game and saving 3 shootouts.

Orange gold - credits worldsportpics

Before the Games started every …

Dutch aiming for the double

Ernst Baart — Thu, 08 Aug 2024 08:05:51 GMT

In the world of sports our game of hockey is a small sport. Whatever some might claim with fake and inflated numbers we’re not in the top 10 sports globally. Not by a long shot… In the Netherlands however hockey is among the bigger sports, for both men and women. That shows in the rankings…

Before the finals are played today and tomorrow in the Paris Gam…

The stage is set for the finals in Paris

Ernst Baart — Wed, 07 Aug 2024 19:19:31 GMT

Every four years hockey plays its pinnacle event like so many other sports. The Paris 2024 Games have reached the final stage. The once iconic Stade Yves du Manoir is the place to be. The men’s medal games are scheduled for Thursday August 8 and the women fro Friday August 9.

The men

All experts agreed upfront this would be one of the toughest Olympic eve…

Who will play the medal games in Paris?

Ernst Baart — Fri, 26 Jul 2024 12:54:57 GMT

In the lead-up to Paris 2024 we asked a few different coaches/players their thoughts about who would play the medal games. In other words who wins their quarter finals when the tournament enters the do or die phase. Also who would surprise these Games and if the PC would still be a deciding factor in Paris?

Let’s listen to :

Adam Commens, former player an…

Last minute rule change for Paris

Ernst Baart — Tue, 23 Jul 2024 21:22:46 GMT

On July 16 the FIH published its newest update to the specific rules for the Paris Games. That’s some ten days before the start and after all team selections have been made and announced.

In it a rule change allowing more flexibility in using the reserve players. A change most coaches will welcome. Though would have preferred knowing about earlier, when making their selection…

It follows the rule change for all team sports with alternate players made by the IOC the week before.

Spain wins junior European Championship

Ernst Baart — Sun, 21 Jul 2024 14:08:53 GMT

In Terrassa, just outside Barcelona the junior European Championship, came to an end this weekend. In the men’s competition it was the Spanish team who won gold and for the women it was the Dutch.

Spain U21 before the final - Credits: worldsportpics

Less than a week before the start of Paris 2024

Ernst Baart — Sat, 20 Jul 2024 11:02:22 GMT

Saturday July 27 at 10am Paris time the Games start for hockey. The opening game is between the men of Great Britain and Spain, The Yves du Manoir stadium in the outskirts of Paris is the place to be,,,

Mockup of the Paris hockey venue by FIH

I understand we all wish we could be there in person, but for most of us that remains a dream. So where to watch y…

The Euros return to Mönchengladbach in 2025

Ernst Baart — Fri, 19 Jul 2024 06:00:55 GMT

The Paris Olympics haven’t even started (though the countdown is on 😉) and the next big event is announced already… EuroHockey and DHB will once more organise the European Championship together in the iconic stadium of Mönchengladbach.

Block your calendar and get your tickets. Starting on August 8 in 2025 and with the finals on August 17. Fixtures still…

Amputation was the price of admission for Paris

Ernst Baart — Thu, 18 Jul 2024 09:11:29 GMT

If you’re not into topsport yourself (and even then) it would be the kind of decision that is hard to explain. Athletes make many sacrifices to make it to the Olympics. Most of these are only seen by their teammates and immediate family. Some make the news…

We understand the “standard” sacrifices athletes make in their life to be able to compete at the highest level. But even for those who understand and recognise these, the decision made by Matt Dawson would surprise them.

Matt Dawson - Credits worldsportpics

Last week in international hockey / 2024-07-16

Ernst Baart — Tue, 16 Jul 2024 06:12:47 GMT

Last week:

In Terrassa the European U21 Championships are about to start
Delmee and Verboom continue until LA
Banned for two years Jarmanpreet now ready for Paris
Argentina wins the Junior PanAm
Former umpire Elders is the new EHL boss
Honamas look ahead to first opponent in Paris: Spain

In Terrassa the European U21 Championships are about to start

Terrassa, just outside of Barcelona in Spain, is the village that brought us many hockey Olympians. The renowned club of Atlètic Terrassa will now be the host for the next generation of hockey legends.

Both men and women will be on display starting July 14 with finals on July 20.

Excited to see the talents play? For just under €8 you can buy the pass to watch almost all games live on the streaming platform from EuroHockey.

Watch the U21 Championship

Participating nations have qualified based on their final ranking from the 2022 competition.

For the men thse teams will play in Terrassa: BEL, ENG, ESP, FRA, GER, IRL, NED, TUR.

Men's teams, fixtures and results

For the women the teams are: AUT, BEL, ENG, ESP, FRA, GER, IRL, NED.

Women's teams, fixtures and results

Delmee and Verboom continue until LA

The KNHB by means of their technical director Clarina Sinnige confirmed the prolongation of the contract with Jeroen Delmee and Eric Verboom.

Verboom & Delmee in 2022 - Credits worldsportpics

They started coaching the Dutch men after the Tokyo Games. So after a World Cup and a European Championship they will start their first Games in a few weeks…

Honamas look ahead to first opponent in Paris: Spain

Ernst Baart — Tue, 16 Jul 2024 05:31:06 GMT

The Olympic opening match is a tough one for the German men. On July 28th at 5:00 p.m. - exactly 24 hours after the first match against hosts France - the team of national coach André Henning will face Spain.

Andre Henning - Credits worldsportpics

The southern Europeans' Olympic record is certainly impressive. Spain has won the silver medal three times a…

Argentina wins the Junior PanAm

Ernst Baart — Sun, 14 Jul 2024 00:01:09 GMT

When a team wins a final 10-0 you can’t help but wonder about hockey development in the PanAmerican region. It will come as no surprise to anyone Argentina is the team to beat in any PanAmerican event. It’s probably the only country in that continent with a true hockey tradition and a domestic league worth mentioning.

So the U21 men from Argentina won th…