“Is this how sport is promoted?” The Pakistani table tennis players have called for their own travel and accommodation expenses for the Asian Games

Pakistan’s leading men’s and women’s table tennis players were surprised by the decision of the Pakistan Table Tennis Federation (PTTF), which reportedly asked the athletes to secure their own funds if they want to compete in the Asian Games in Japan later this year.The issue came to light during the ongoing two-day national trials in Lahore, where some players approached federation officials to inquire about daily allowances and travel expenses for the event, PTI reported.According to one player, the athletes were informed that they would not receive any payment for participating in the trials. The player also claimed that those selected for the Asian Games will have to bear the cost of their own travel and accommodation expenses.“We have been told that we will not get anything for participating in the trials. Secondly, the players selected for the Asian Games will have to arrange their own air tickets and foreign currency of USD 50 per day to cover expenses during the Games,” the player was quoted as saying by news agency PTI.The player went on to say that several athletes raised objections after hearing the decision. However, a senior official of the federation reportedly told them that the organization itself was facing financial constraints.“We were told that even for the Asian Games, the PTTF does not receive any grant or funds from the PSB, which is strange. Is this how sports are promoted in Pakistan?” the player asked, but declined to be named.According to the player, the official also told them that they should appreciate the fact that the trials were organized despite the federation not receiving any financial assistance from the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB).The reported development has created uncertainty among players preparing for one of the biggest multi-sport events in Asia. Representing the country at the Asian Games is considered a great opportunity for athletes, but the requirement to finance their own participation could pose an additional burden for those selected.Pakistan has never won a medal in table tennis at either the Asian Games or the Asian Championships. Sports at the continental level have traditionally been dominated by countries such as China, South Korea, Malaysia and India.