According to Ashraf, Heuvel’s treatment has been indifferent, behaviour new to him as previous coaches have always asked for his input. “Heuvel is a professional and has a different way of treating the team,” Ashraf told The Express Tribune. “As far Heuvel and I are concerned, we are still trying to understand each other. I follow directions as a fullback in the team, not as a captain.”
Earlier, Ashraf expressed his reservations over the Pakistan Hockey Federation’s (PHF) decision of sending 17-year-old juniors Kashif Shah and Mohammad Rizwan for the three-week Holland tour.
“I can you tell one thing, that we will have a different team by the time the Commonwealth Games start. I’m not interfering in any of the decisions that Heuvel has made because we are only practising right now. I’m just trying to see how he responds to my suggestions once the matches start,” said Ashraf.
He added that he hopes the situation will improve so that the team does not face a difficult time in the Commonwealth and Asian Games.
Meanwhile, Heuvel claims that he is assessing the players on their performance in the camp, which does not require any consultation from Ashraf. However, the Dutch said that he will discuss the formations with the team once the matches start. He said that he is always available for the team and any player can walk up to him and share his views.
Published in The Express Tribune, September 6th, 2010.
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