India produced a ruthless performance to hammer arch-rivals Pakistan 7-1 in the FIH Pro League 2025-26 here on Friday, registering their second victory over the neighbours in three days.

The match at the Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre saw India extend their unbeaten run against Pakistan to 10 years. This was also India’s fourth win of the season as they climbed to seventh place on the points table. Pakistan, on the other hand, continued their dismal run, suffering their 15th straight defeat and remaining at the bottom.

Pakistan drew first blood in the 13th minute when Abu Mahmood converted a penalty corner. It was the same player who had scored in the previous meeting between the two sides. However, India took complete control of the game in the second quarter.

Sukhjeet Singh equalised in the 20th minute. Captain Harmanpreet Singh then gave India the lead six minutes later. The floodgates opened after that as Hardik Singh and Jugraj Singh scored in back-to-back minutes in the 34th and 35th. Jugraj’s strike came from a swift counter-attack.

Abhishek added another goal in the 41st minute, his second against Pakistan in two matches. Raj Kumar Pal made it 6-1 in the 44th minute before Dilpreet Singh completed the rout in the 54th. In all, seven different Indian players got their names on the scoresheet.

The match was not without concern. Pakistan forward Ahmad Nadeem was hit on the face in the second quarter and had to leave the field in a wheelchair after receiving medical attention. The extent of his injury is not yet known.

The comprehensive victory will boost India’s confidence as they continue their Pro League campaign. The team, under new captain Harmanpreet Singh, showed sharp attacking intent and solid defensive structure after the early setback.

Pakistan, struggling throughout the season, could not find any rhythm despite the early lead. Their defence looked vulnerable against India’s quick transitions and set-piece execution.

This result further highlights the growing gap between the two traditional rivals in world hockey. While India continues to evolve and compete with top teams, Pakistan are finding it difficult to secure even a single point in the league.

The Indian team will now look to build on this momentum in their upcoming matches. For Pakistan, the focus remains on damage control and finding ways to stop the slide.

Pakistan Hockey Captain Slams Pakistan Hockey Federation After Australia Tour Fiasco

In a shocking revelation that has sent ripples across the sporting world, Pakistan hockey captain Shakeel Ammad Butt has openly criticised the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) following a chaotic and humiliating tour of Australia.

Speaking to reporters at Lahore Airport upon the team’s return, Butt expressed deep frustration over what he described as severe mismanagement by the Pakistan Hockey Federation. His most startling claim — that players had to “wash dishes before going to play a match” — has triggered nationwide outrage.

“Enough Is Enough”: Captain Breaks Silence

The Pakistan hockey team endured a difficult tour during the FIH Pro League matches in Australia. According to Butt, the squad was left stranded without proper hotel bookings despite funds being allocated.

“We can’t work with this current management,” Butt said. “When players have to clean kitchens and wash dishes before going to play a match, what result do you expect from us?”

The controversy has put the Pakistan Hockey Federation under intense scrutiny. Reports suggest the team waited nearly 13-14 hours at Sydney Airport before flying to Canberra. Upon arrival, they allegedly discovered no confirmed hotel reservations due to unpaid advances.

The situation worsened when players had to roam the streets before temporary accommodation was arranged.

Funds Released, But Where Did They Go?

The Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) confirmed it had released more than 10 million rupees to the Pakistan Hockey Federation to cover hotel expenses for the Australia tour fiasco.

PSB Director-General Noor us Sabah has reportedly prepared a detailed report for Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who serves as patron-in-chief of the PHF. An official inquiry has now been ordered.

Adding to the embarrassment, the Airbnb accommodation was reportedly booked for only 10 days, while the team was scheduled to stay for 13. Players were forced to shift to a cheaper residence mid-tour.

Performance Impact on the Field

The turmoil off the field reflected in results. The Pakistan hockey team lost all its matches during the Australia leg, including a narrow 2-3 defeat against the hosts in their opening fixture.

Sports analysts believe administrative chaos directly affects performance. “Athletes need stability and mental peace. Logistical failures can severely impact morale,” said a former international hockey coach.

Butt also emphasized the urgent need for structural reforms, including hiring a foreign coach and improving management systems.

Why This Matters Now

This incident comes at a time when Pakistan hockey is struggling to reclaim its former glory on the global stage. Once a dominant force in world hockey, the team now faces recurring financial and administrative crises.

The Australia tour fiasco has reignited debate over governance standards in Pakistani sports bodies. Fans and former legends have called the episode “shameful” and demanded accountability from the Pakistan Hockey Federation.

What Happens Next?

With an official inquiry underway, the coming weeks could determine the future leadership of the Pakistan Hockey Federation. Players have reportedly been warned against speaking to media, but Butt’s bold statement may encourage further disclosures.

For now, the focus remains on restoring credibility, improving management transparency, and ensuring that the Pakistan hockey team receives the professional support it deserves.

If reforms are not implemented swiftly, this controversy could have long-term implications for Pakistan hockey’s international standing.