Thumbs-up likely for Rehan Butt

Former captain lined up to make the cut for Olympics

KARACHI: Rehan Butt’s impressive comeback in the recently concluded National Hockey Championship, complemented by his vast experience, is likely to get him included in the squad for the Olympics, the probables for which are expected to be named this week.

The Pakistan Hockey Federation’s (PHF) think-tank will hold a meeting to finalise probables for a training camp and according to a selector, Butt may see a change in fortunes after leading his side to the final in Karachi.

The former captain was dropped after the Europe tour last year and missed the Asian Champions Trophy, the Champions Trophy as well as the tour of Australia and the home series against China.

The 32-year old was granted special permission to feature in the national event after a request by the team management and scored ten goals.

“Butt is almost certain inductee to be included,” a PHF official told The Express Tribune. “He was impressive and was able to prove his fitness during the championship.”

Butt’s fitness was fine: Hanif

Chief selector Hanif Khan, although refusing to confirm Butt’s inclusion, did give his fitness a thumbs-up.

“His fitness levels were fine,” said Hanif. “We didn’t find any rustiness or signs of injury but there’s a difference between domestic and international hockey and that’s what we will be discussing before making any decision on him.”

Published in The Express Tribune, February 14^th, 2012.