PHF secretary Asif Bajwa told PTI that since the Hockey India League -- to be held in January-February next year -- was recognised by the International Hockey Federation (FIH) there was no problem in giving permission to the players.
"FIH has sanctioned the league so it is official. Earlier this year, we stopped our players from going to World Hockey Series since it was not an official event and not recognized by the FIH," he said.
Although drag-flick specialist Sohail Abbas did not take part in the WSH but a number of other senior Pakistani players went to India for the event and they were asked to appear before a disciplinary hearing of the PHF.
The PHF later let them off with a fine and most of the players, including Shakeel Abbasi, Rehan Butt and Waseem Ahmed, were also picked in the London Olympic squad.
Bajwa said 13 of the 14 players invited for the HIL were members of the Olympic squad.
A total of 80 overseas players will be up for grabs for six franchises in the auction next month.
Bajwa said the players were looking forward to going to India to play in an official league.
"Our players are excited for the event. We are sure that it will be a huge success, drawing the best talent from around the world," said Bajwa.
The 14 Pakistani players set to participate in the league include Imran Shah, Imran Butt, Mohammad Irfan, Sohail Abbas, Mohammad Imran, Syed Kashif Shah, Mohammad Rizwan Jr, Fareed Ahmed, Rashid Mehmood, Mohammad Tousiq, Mohammad Rizwan Sr, Shafqat Rasool, Waqas Mohammad and Ali Shan.
Meanwhile, Abbas said that he was yet to sign the contract.
"I've been offered the contract and I
