Pakistan seeks Roelant Oltmans to coach national team

The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has reached out to former India coach Roelant Oltmans to take charge of the national team. Oltmans, who previously led the Indian hockey team for nearly five years, has been approached by the PHF amidst its internal crisis and financial challenges.

The PHF, currently divided into two factions, has requested Oltmans to coach the Pakistan team for the upcoming Azlan Shah Cup and the Nations Cup, scheduled to be held in Malaysia and Poland respectively in May-June.

Oltmans, a Dutchman, had served as India’s High Performance Director in 2013 and later took on the role of men’s team chief coach in 2015. Despite playing a significant role in rejuvenating Indian hockey, he was dismissed from his position in 2017 due to perceived lack of results.

Rana Mujahid, secretary of one faction of the PHF, confirmed the approach to Oltmans, highlighting his prior involvement with the Pakistan team, including coaching the junior side last year. However, Haider Hussain, secretary of the opposing faction, warned of potential suspension from the International Hockey Federation (FIH) if the internal dispute is not resolved.

Meanwhile, former Olympians Kaleemullah, Wasim Feroze, Nasir Ali, and Hanif Khan, aligned with Hussain’s faction, emphasized their recognition by the FIH and urged Prime Minister intervention to resolve the ongoing controversy surrounding the PHF.

If Oltmans agrees to the terms and conditions, the PHF intends to enlist him for coaching duties in the upcoming tournaments. Both factions of the federation are aiming to establish the national team's training camp in Karachi or Islamabad starting from April 15, in preparation for the upcoming competitions.