Recalled goal-keeper Salman Akbar will skip the tri-nation event and the International Super Hockey Series from October 20 to November 3 in Australia due to his commitment with a Dutch club for the season.
Akbar was included among the 25 probables in the national camp for the two events in Australia before the Champions Trophy in December but has been replaced by Imran Shah as the first-choice goal-keeper.
The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) Chief Selector Hanif Khan said that the team selected for the Australian tour will help the selectors finalise Pakistan’s squad due to feature in both the Champions Trophy and next year’s London Olympics.
Akbar and penalty-corner specialist Sohail Abbas were two of the senior players recalled in the national camp after the Asian Champions Trophy. Akbar said that he will participate in the national camp for the Champions Trophy next month.
“I can’t play in Australia since it’s clashing with my Dutch league matches,” Akbar told The Express Tribune. “The PHF is aware of it and I’m thankful to them for calling me back. It shows that they still have faith in me. However, I will take part in the national camp for the Champions Trophy next month.”
The PHF, accepting Akbar’s explanation, has named Imran Butt as the reserve goal-keeper. Hanif said that this would also be a good opportunity for the newcomers as it will prepare them for future assignments.
Meanwhile, Akbar said that he is training hard for the Champions Trophy.
“I’ve been in constant touch with coach Michel van den Heuvel and I’ve assured the PHF that I’m available for the Champions Trophy. Recalling Abbas will benefit us since penalty corners was a weak point for us in the last tournament,” said Akbar.
Published in The Express Tribune, October 4th, 2011.
COMMENTS
Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.
For more information, please see our Comments FAQ