LAHORE — Pakistan suffered a 3-0 defeat against Australia in their third match of the FIH Pro League second leg at the Tasmania Hockey Centre in Hobart on Friday. The loss came after a narrow 3-2 defeat to the hosts in the first match, highlighting Australia’s growing dominance.
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Blake Govers scored twice for Australia, while Jack Welch added one goal to secure a comfortable victory for the home side. Germany, who also defeated Pakistan earlier in the leg, is set to face Pakistan in the final match on Saturday, giving the team a chance to regain some pride before the conclusion of the tour.
Pakistan captain Ammad Butt addressed recent media reports alleging that the national team faced accommodation issues during the tour. Butt categorically denied claims, largely circulated by certain Indian media outlets, that the squad did not receive hotel arrangements approved by the FIH.
Sources confirmed that the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) initially booked an FIH-approved hotel at a cost of Rs4 million. However, the Pakistan Sports Board, responsible for funding the national team, did not complete the payment online. As a result, the team manager carried the required amount in cash.
Upon arrival in Hobart, the originally booked hotel had increased its rates nearly twofold. Consequently, the team management arranged alternative accommodation, which was not FIH-approved. Despite the logistical challenge, Butt emphasized that the players remained focused on their performances on the field.
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The Pakistan hockey team continues to face tough competition in the Pro League, as Australia and Germany remain strong contenders. With one match left in the second leg, Pakistan will look to finish the tour on a positive note, addressing both on-field performance and off-field challenges.