3:53 AM
McGhori
KARACHI: Probables for the Olympic Games will be finalised in a week’s time, secretary of the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) Asif Bajwa told reporters on Friday.
“We would be holding extensive training camps for the players before finalising the squad for the Olympics,” he said.
“Our focus is to provide maximum training and coaching to help players remove their deficiencies.
“The probables need to harness their skills and improve in various areas of the game,” Bajwa emphasised.
Commenting on the selection of veteran forward Rehan Butt, the PHF official said the selectors and chief coach were evaluating his form and fitness in order to decide his fate.
He said the PHF was planning longer camps for the probables in Europe and elsewhere. “We would also be trying to arrange matches for them ahead of the Olympics,” he stated.
Meanwhile, chief selector Hanif Khan said they would be picking around 30 to 35 probables from which the national squad would be chosen.
“Personally, I want long training camps for the players which will help them improve their scoring power, defence and stamina,” Hanif underlined.
“It’s important to work on the grey areas of the team. We will not comprise on fitness of the players,” Hanif stated.
It is interesting to recall that Pakistan’s chief coach Michel Van Den Heuvel wanted more international exposure for the players prior to the London extravaganza.
After arriving here to witness the National Hockey Championship, Heuvel had said that Pakistan needed to play around 20 to 25 international games to be in better shape for the Olympics.—APP
Posted in: SPORTS
