Good performances in C’ship will only be good for camp: Hanif Khan |
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27-Jan-2012
THE NEWS
KARACHI: Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) chief selector Hanif Khan on Thursday said that good performance in the 59th National Hockey Championship would not guarantee inclusion in the Pakistan team and players would have to prove their worth in the national camp.
Speaking to reporters at the Hockey Club of Pakistan (HCP), he said that the real test for the players would be in the camp where their abilities and fitness would be judged. “Whoever performs well in this championship will be given a chance in the camp, which will be the real test for players to show their mettle in order to get into the team,” Khan said.
He said that Olympian Rehan Butt was allowed to take part in the event because the selection committee wanted to gauge his fitness. “If he shows that he is fit and can sort out disciplinary issues then he will be seriously considered for national duty,” he added.
The chief selector also said that PHF has softened its stance only because junior players failed to live up to the expectations, forcing selectors to think about bringing back the experienced campaigners.
When asked if he thought the u-turn of calling back seniors at the last moment would hinder the preparation for Olympics, he said: “The preparation for Olympics is going well and Rehan’s possible inclusion would not disturb plans. He has been serving Pakistan for years so class and experience is there, he only needs to prove that he is fit enough.”
However, he encouraged juniors not to lose heart if they are sidelined. Khan stated that ouster does not mean the end of the world for them as they have age on their side. He said that those who get excluded should work hard in order to return as better players.
He said the aim for Pakistan is to finish in top four at the London 2012 Olympics. “The goal is to prepare a side that can do well at the Olympics because Pakistan hockey depends on the London Games. We are targeting a top four finish at Olympics and if we can achieve that then it will be very good for us,” Khan said. About the future of goalkeeper Salman Akbar, who is facing competition for his spot, Khan said: “The goalkeeper’s position is not confirmed for anybody |
