Pakistan set to face India netball teams

Federation ropes in Sri Lanka coach to train players.

KARACHI:

Pakistan and India are set to play a five-match series in May as part of preparations for the Asian Netball Championship  due  in August in Sri Lanka.

Pakistan Netball Federation (PNF) Secretary Mudassir Arain said the matches would be placed in New Delhi and Chandigarh, featuring both men’s and women’s teams after a two-month training camp under the supervision of a Sri Lankan coach who will arrive in Lahore next month.

“It’s a big step for us and a huge opportunity for Pakistan players,” Arain told The Express Tribune. “We have roped in two deals, which will benefit us in the Asian Championship.

“Firstly, we will be getting a foreign coach for the first time, and then an Indian tour will be a huge boost. We’re glad that the Indian Netball Federation has accepted our proposal.”

Pakistan will clash with the India netball team after  six years with the last occasion witnessing the Indians clinching the battle 2-1 before Pakistan downed India 3-2.

Arain said the Pakistan Sports Board approved funds for hiring the Sri Lankan coach, who will train 45 players and will be paid $1,500 per month.

“Sri Lanka are the top team in Asia and we have just finalised our agreement with the Sri Lankan federation.

“Their national coach is taking out time for us and that will give our players the chance to learn techniques and improve their skills,” added Arain.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 10^th, 2012.