Greenshirts drafted into league franchises

Pakistan players bought for low prices at Hockey India League auctions.

KARACHI: Pakistan players paved their way into the Hockey India League (HIL) after majority of them were sold at the auctions for the inaugural event that took place in New Delhi yesterday.

The tournament sanctioned by the International Hockey Federation (FIH) will be played from January 17 to February 17 among six franchises — Delhi Wave Riders, Mumbai Magicians, Ranchi Rhinos, Punjab Warriors, Lucknow’s Uttar Pradesh Wizards and Bangalore.

According to information made available here, nine of 15 Pakistanis, who were placed for auctions among foreign players were bought by different franchises.

However, Pakistan captain Mohammad Imran along with experienced campaigners Mohammad Waqas and Haseem Khan remained unsold, till the filing of this report.

Mumbai showed keen interest in the Greenshirts as they grabbed four players including Mohammad Rashid, Mohammad Tousiq, Fareed Ahmed and goal-keeper Imran Butt.

Shafqat Rasool was bought by Ranchi, who also picked up Mohammad Irfan. Delhi secured the services of both Mohammad Rizwan Junior and Senior. Kashif Shah went to Punjab.

Indians sold for high prices 

Meanwhile, the home players were in demand with Indian captain Sardar Singh hitting the jackpot after being bought by Delhi for $78, 000. India’s star drag-flicker Raghunath also went for a high price as he was purchased by Uttar Pradesh for $76,000.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 17^th, 2012.