Hockey: Ashraf’s return uncertain

Former hockey captain not an automatic choice anymore, says PHF.

KARACHI: The return of former Pakistan hockey captain Zeeshan Ashraf appears to be uncertain even though the experienced defender has expressed his availability for this year’s Champions Trophy.

Ashraf, who led Pakistan to Asian Games glory last year, withdrew before the Azlan Shah Cup in May saying that he would only play in major tournaments in a bid to give a chance to the youngsters.

Now Ashraf is all geared up for a comeback for the event in December.

“I’m available for the tournament,” Ashraf told The Express Tribune. “If the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) wants me back, I’m more than ready. I’m confident that I can prove my fitness but it’s up to the PHF to decide.”

Selection committee to wait for PHF’s go-ahead

The PHF chief selector Hanif Khan hinted that the former captain was not an automatic choice and said that a decision will be made by the selection committee after getting a go-ahead from the federation.

“We can consider his name among the Champions Trophy probables after getting the PHF’s green signal,” said Khan.

However, according to another PHF official, an impressive performance by youngsters in the recently-concluded Asian Champions Trophy where Pakistan ended runners-up has raised doubts on the return of the senior players.

“The PHF is happy over the youngsters’ show,” said the official before adding the decision can only be taken after getting a detailed tour report by the team management after the first Asian Champions Trophy in China.

“The report will be crucial in deciding the fate of these senior players who are not an automatic choice anymore.”

Penalty-corner specialist Sohail Abbas, former captain Rehan Butt and experienced goal-keeper Salman Akber were also missing from the Asian Champions Trophy.

Published in The Express Tribune, September 15^th,  2011.