Former Olympian Shahnaz Sheikh asks Greenshirts to work hard for 2012 London Olympics
Despite losing the final game of the 20th Azlan Shah Cup against Australia, the former players and Olympians are satisfied with the performance of the Pakistan’ hockey team in the Malaysia-based seven-nation invitational.
Shahnaz Sheikh, the former Olympians and one of the best forward players of his era, said that the Greenshirts displayed outstanding performance against the Kookaburras, the World Number One squad. However, the former Olympian urged the players to overcome
their weak portions, particularly in the defensive line. Explaining the situation, he said that the goalie should have to deliver vigorous performance in the head-to-head contest like in the finals.
The Aussies have clinched the title of the 20th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup after they edged past Pakistan via a golden goal in the 83rd minute of the match. Pakistan gave the Kookaburras a tough time, but failed to deny a short-corner in
the second half of the extra-time and lost the crucial game.
In addition, he stated that the forward players or strikers would have to further enhance their finishing skills, if they want to develop their game. In the meantime, the former Olympians expressed astonishment over the non-availability of reserve custodian
with the team.
He stated, “We should have beaten Australia on the run of play but our team lacked in consistency. Our team needs to improve match temperament and physical fitness and for that they should increase their international appearances against top sides.”
Meanwhile, another fabled hockey star, Samiullah, flayed on the local television networks for not broadcasting the live final match between Pakistan and Australia.
He stated, “It was a big match and a big event for Pakistan hockey in which it reached the final despite world-class teams participating in it. So I think it should have been telecasted in the country.” He continued that such events could inspire the youngsters
with the game, which could serve the country on many fronts.
In a recommendation section, Sheikh asked the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) to train such players those would be part of the squad in the 2012 London Olympics. In his views, the process should be commenced from the upcoming Champions Trophy that will
be took place at the end of this year in New Delhi, India.
Replying to a query, the former legend was of the opinion that the Champions Trophy will be a test for Dutch Coach, Michel van den Heuvel, to prove his worth, as victory in the presence of all the major hockey teams will be tough task.
Commenting on the domestic part of the game, Sheikh said that a tournament would be hosted by the next month at the Muslim School Ground, situated at the Saidpur Road, Rawalpindi. Excluding the boundary walls, most of the work in the Stadium has been completed,
he maintained.
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