Former Player Hameed-ul-Haq Criticizes Harsh Decision
PTF ban on Mohammad Shoaib: Former Pakistani tennis star Hameed-ul-Haq has openly condemned the Pakistan Tennis Federation’s (PTF) recent decision to ban Mohammad Shoaib for six months. Hameed believes the disciplinary action is unfair and risks derailing the career of Pakistan’s top-ranked player.
The Incident at the Federal Tennis Cup
The controversy stems from an incident during the Federal Tennis Cup held at the PTF Complex in Islamabad. Mohammad Shoaib reportedly had a verbal altercation with fellow players Talha and Huzaifa. The dispute escalated into a physical confrontation with their father, Amjad Niazi. Shoaib was accused of striking Amjad with his racket.
Disciplinary Action and Escalation
Initially, the Islamabad Tennis Association fined Shoaib 25% of his match fee. They viewed the matter as settled. However, the PTF later revisited the case. Its disciplinary committee imposed a further fine of Rs150,000 and banned Shoaib from all national and international events for six months.
Hameed Calls the Ban Unfair and Unjustified
Hameed-ul-Haq slammed the PTF for reopening a resolved case. He stated that the additional punishment was unprecedented and went against the principles of fair justice.
“The organizers already took disciplinary action. Reopening the case with a harsher penalty is unjust,” Hameed said.
Lack of Fair Hearing Raises Ethical Concerns
Hameed criticized the PTF ban on Mohammad Shoaib, a chance to defend himself. He argued that the committee acted unilaterally without solid evidence.
“The Disciplinary Committee failed to provide Shoaib a fair hearing. This raises ethical concerns and jeopardizes his future,” he added.
Impact on Shoaib’s Career and National Representation
Shoaib is a Davis Cup team member. Hameed highlighted that the player was taken to Kazakhstan for a tournament but was not allowed to compete. He viewed the ban as demotivating for top-performing athletes.
“This decision sends the wrong message to young talent and top performers in Pakistan,” said Hameed.
Conclusion: Call for Fair Treatment
Hameed urged the PTF to treat athletes with fairness and transparency. He emphasized the importance of nurturing, not punishing, the country’s top tennis talent.
