Akbar gives Dutch league priority over CW, Asian Games

KARACHI: Pakistan’s seasoned goalkeeper Salman Akbar wants to feature in the Dutch Hockey League starting next month that clashes with the Commonwealth Games and the Asian Games. The former captain has asked permission from the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) to participate in this year’s last season of the three-month league in the Netherlands that starts next month and coincides with the Commonwealth Games and the Asian Games that are to be held from October 3 and November 12 respectively.

Akbar, who has signed a fresh two-year contract with the Laren Club for the league, claims he is in negotiation with officials of the club to give him room to play for Pakistan in the two back-to-back quadrennial events.

“I am in negotiation with the club to release me for the mega events and I am hopeful that I will get it,” the experienced goal-keeper told The Express Tribune. Akbar is adamant that he will get enough time to play for his Laren side in the Dutch League as well as the other two tournaments.

“I will have enough time to play for my club as well and I am confident of featuring in all the three events,” said Akbar, while adding that he has also assured his availability to the PHF for his national side.

Salman claims PHF secretary Asif Bajwa was supportive and is thus hoping for a positive response from him. The veteran goalie also remains optimistic of taking part in the training camps ahead of the two spectacles.

“I will be taking part in the camp in Lahore next week and will also attend the camp in the Netherlands next month.”

Akbar stressed his participation in the Dutch League will give him ideal preparations for the Asian and the Commonwealth Games.

“I will get good training from my club’s trainer in the Netherlands as it was only because of them that I was named in the World XI side last year” said Akbar.

“Giving my best for the national team is my prime objective and I am confident that participating in the league will not hamper my preparations and instead will improve my skills.”

Published in The Express Tribune, August 7^th, 2010.