The nine-a-side tournament, which takes place in Perth from October 20, is a new format, and Hanif said Pakistan and India ‘don’t stand a chance’ in the event. His comments follow that of Australia coach Ric Charlesworth who said that the format will benefit the South Asian teams.
However, Hanif disagreed and said Pakistan, who have never practised in this format, were focusing on improving their skills ahead of tougher assignments. “If I were to predict a winner, it would be Australia,” Hanif told The Express Tribune. “We were never consulted before this format was introduced and I don’t think Pakistan or India stand a chance. “The whole concept of having a quicker game and change in rules is alien to us. But I believe this format can improve our game.”
The Olympian said focus was on improving the team’s strategy ahead of the Champions Trophy in December. He said that the format requires forwards to be more active and this can help the players understand their individual game.
‘Format to attract crowd’
Meanwhile, PHF President Qasim Zia said that the format will help in drawing bigger crowds as the duration of the match is shorter – each half of 15 minutes – and more goals would be scored since the goal-post will be a metre wider than the usual.
“It’s good for the sport,” said Zia. “It should definitely help our team, since players will have to work harder on their fitness,” said Zia.
Published in The Express Tribune, October 13th, 2011.
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