ISLAMABAD, APR 13 (DNA): Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has barred nine players from participating in the National Under-18 Youth Hockey Games after they were found overage during a stringent scrutiny process.

According to a PHF press release issued here on Monday, the federation’s scrutiny committee disqualified the players on grounds of age misrepresentation and exceeding the prescribed age limit for the tournament.

The verification process, carried out with the assistance of the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA), involved careful examination of Family Registration Certificates (FRCs), which confirmed that the players were not eligible to compete in the U-18 category.

The PHF reiterated its commitment to uphold transparency and merit, emphasizing that equal and fair competition is essential to protect the rights of genuine young athletes.

The federation further stated that such measures are necessary to ensure integrity in age-group competitions and to promote a level playing field for all participants.

The Youth Under-18 National Hockey Championship 2026, running from April 9 to 19, features 16 teams from across the country competing fiercely for the national title. The tournament serves as a key platform for identifying and nurturing the next generation of Pakistani hockey talent.