‘Bronze a boost ahead of Champions Trophy’

Win against India will help boost morale, says Zaman.


Fawad Hussain November 26, 2012 1 min read

KARACHI: The Pakistan Hockey Federation’s (PHF) coaching consultant Tahir Zaman has termed the win against India at the Super Series tournament a breakthrough for the Greenshirts ahead of the crucial Champions Trophy. 

Pakistan lost all three league matches at the four-nation, nine-a-side tournament – they lost 4-2 against Australia and England before a 5-2 thrashing at the hands of India. However, the result was reversed in the third-place playoff on Sunday. Zaman felt the sole win was important ahead of the Champions Trophy that starts in Melbourne from December 1.

“The team bounced back at just the right time,” the Olympian told The Express Tribune. “It was an important win after three defeats on the trot. It will definitely help the team regain confidence before the tough event.”

However, Zaman added that it will not be realistic to expect a medal from Pakistan.

“If we manage to finish fourth, that will be a big achievement. This tournament has always been tough due to the presence of top-ranked teams. We have to win against less stronger teams.”

Greenshirts reach Melbourne

Meanwhile, the Pakistan team reached Melbourne yesterday after taking part in the Super Series event. According to a team official, the players will undergo training session today. Pakistan are placed alongside Australia, the Netherlands and Belgium in the group.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 27th, 2012.

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