Pakistani Kabaddi Player Mistakenly Appears in Indian Team. The Pakistan Kabaddi Federation has called an emergency General Council meeting after a Pakistani kabaddi player was seen playing for an Indian team during a tournament in Bahrain. The meeting is scheduled for December 27 and will focus on reviewing the incident and deciding possible disciplinary action. The issue became serious after photos and videos spread online, showing the player wearing an Indian jersey and waving the Indian flag.
What Exactly Happened in Bahrain
During a kabaddi tournament held in Bahrain, images surfaced of Ubaidullah Rajput, a Pakistani player, appearing for an Indian side. In the same footage, he was also seen celebrating with the Indian team and holding their national flag. As soon as the visuals went viral, they triggered outrage among fans and raised questions about rules, permissions, and national representation.
Federation’s Immediate Response
Following the controversy, PKF Secretary Rana Sarwar confirmed that the emergency meeting was called on the directions of federation chairman Chaudhry Shafay Hussain. He said the General Council will examine the matter in detail and decide on strict disciplinary measures if required. The federation views the incident as a serious breach of conduct.
Was the Tournament Officially Approved
According to the Pakistan Kabaddi Federation, the Bahrain tournament was not officially approved. Sarwar explained that although 16 Pakistani players participated in the event, none were selected as part of a sanctioned national team. The federation did not issue any No Objection Certificates and did not allow any team to represent Pakistan in the competition.
Use of Pakistan’s Name Without Permission
The federation stated that the team traveling to Bahrain was self-assembled and used Pakistan’s name without approval. Officials also revealed that tournament organizers neither contacted the PKF nor sought clearance from the government before holding the event. This lack of coordination has added to the seriousness of the issue.
Why the Player’s Action Is Seen as Unacceptable
Rana Sarwar described the player’s decision to play for an Indian team and wave its flag as deeply regrettable and unacceptable. While it is common for players from different countries to appear together in club-level kabaddi, the federation stressed that representing another country and displaying its national flag crosses a clear line.
Possible Action Against Organizers and Promoters
The PKF has also warned that action may not be limited to the player alone. Officials said the federation will move against self-appointed promoters who arrange unauthorized tournaments. The PKF made it clear that it will not allow anyone to misuse Pakistan’s name or damage the country’s image through illegal sporting events.
Why This Issue Matters for Pakistani Sports
This incident has highlighted gaps in oversight and regulation in unofficial international tournaments. It has also raised concerns about player discipline and the need for clearer rules regarding overseas participation. Protecting national identity and maintaining professional standards remain key priorities for the federation.
What to Expect Next
The General Council meeting on December 27 will review all aspects of the case. The federation is expected to announce its final decision later this month. The outcome may also lead to stricter policies to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the PKF call an emergency meeting
The meeting was called after a Pakistani player appeared for an Indian team and waved the Indian flag during a tournament.
Was the Bahrain tournament officially sanctioned
No, the Pakistan Kabaddi Federation says it did not approve the event or issue any NOCs.
Can Pakistani players play in foreign tournaments
Players can take part in club-level events, but representing another country without permission is not allowed.
Will disciplinary action be taken
Yes, the federation has confirmed that a full investigation is underway and action may follow.
Are organizers also under investigation
Yes, the PKF has warned that unauthorized organizers and promoters could also face consequences.
Conclusion
The Pakistan Kabaddi Federation’s decision to call an emergency meeting shows how seriously it views the incident. As the investigation moves forward, the case serves as a reminder that representing a country in sports carries responsibility and strict rules. The final decision is expected to shape future participation of Pakistani players in overseas kabaddi events.
