Pakistan hockey: Hanif Khan removed as coach

Pakistan need to win the title in next month’s Asia Cup in Malaysia to qualify for the World Cup next year.

KARACHI: The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has removed Hanif Khan as coach of the national team, naming Tahir Zaman to replace the former Olympian ahead of the Asia Cup.

The changes in the team management had been speculated after the team crashed to seventh place during the Hockey World League (HWL) in Malaysia, failing to qualify for the World Cup.

The PHF, however, has decided to show faith in Akhtar Rasool. The former captain has been retained as the manager-cum-coach.

Zaman, a qualified coach had traveled with the team for HWL as a consultant.

According to reports, Hanif and Zaman had differences of opinions regarding Pakistan’s game plan in the HWL, after which both officials refused to work together.

Zaman told The Express Tribune that he will take the challenge in the interest of the team.

“I will use all my expertise to mentor the team,” said the coach.

“It is a tough task but I am hopeful that the team will do well.”

Pakistan need to win the title in next month’s Asia Cup in Malaysia to qualify for the World Cup scheduled to be held in the Netherlands next year.