The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has appointed Abu Bakar as the new captain of the Pakistan National Hockey Team, on the recommendation of its Professional Development Committee.
According to a PHF statement, the recommendation was made by the committee comprising Islahuddin Siddiqui and Hassan Sardar, and approved by PHF President Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani.
The federation said Abu Bakar will lead the national team as Pakistan prepares for the upcoming international competitions.
He succeeded Amaad Butt, who served as Pakistan’s captain.
In the statement, the PHF appreciated Ahmad Butt’s contribution and dedication to the national team, adding that he will continue to be part of the Pakistan squad as a senior player.
The federation said it is confident that the team will continue to develop into a competitive unit under the leadership of Abu Bakar and with the experience of senior players and younger members of the squad.
The appointment comes after Pakistan endured a disappointing campaign in the 2026 FIH Pro League where the team finished without any wins. Pakistan lost all sixteen matches in the nine-team tournament, playing each of the other eight participating countries twice and finishing bottom of the standings with a goal difference of -57.
Earlier in March this year, Pakistan secured qualification for the FIH Hockey Men’s World Cup, ending an eight-year absence from the tournament. They booked their place with a 4–3 win over Japan in the semi-finals of the World Cup qualifiers in Ismailia, Egypt, on March 6, 2026.
The 2026 FIH Hockey Men’s World Cup will be held from August 14 to 30, with Belgium and the Netherlands as co-hosts.
