Waseem Ahmed, who had 409 international appearances during his career spanning over 15 years, announced his retirement yesterday. PHOTO: AFP
Pakistan’s failure to qualify for the 2014 World Cup prompted widespread protests from Olympians, who rued the lost status of the four-time champions. It also witnessed fans carrying out mock funerals, terming the fiasco as the ‘death of hockey’ in Pakistan.
Former captain Ahmed, who has featured in four World Cups (1998-2010), was also disappointed but said there was still hope for the national game.
“Our exit is hurting but it’s not over for us,” Ahmed told The Express Tribune. “We are out of just one tournament which in fact for me is a blessing in disguise.
“We needed a shock as tragedies bring opportunities to redeem.”
The veteran said the authorities should take the team’s failure as a wake-up call to amend their strategy for a bright future.
“Fitness or other weaknesses on the field are just symptoms, not the disease. The problems lie in the bleak future for hockey players and our weak domestic structure.
“It’s time for all of us to put aside our personal interests and work for the betterment of hockey in Pakistan.
“I am also saying this to the protesting Olympians, who just criticise for the sake of criticism or to pave their way for a role in the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF).”
Ahmed further said the PHF and former legends need to work together for the revival of the national game with assistance from the government.
“I can still see loads of talented youngsters who can turn the tide if guided properly. Pakistan still possesses the best talent. But these youngsters are confused about their future and are working half-heartedly because they see their seniors struggling for livelihood.
“By ensuring these youngsters a good future and with improvement on the domestic level, we can progress by leaps and bounds.”
Ahmed seeks exhibition match for ceremonious exit
The seasoned midfielder, who has decided to retire from international hockey, is seeking an exhibition match for his farewell.
“I’ve informed the senior PHF officials about my decision,” he said. “It’s time to pave way for the juniors as we aren’t playing any major competition in the near future. All I want is a ceremonious exit in return for my years of service.
“I request the PHF to arrange a reception or an exhibition match in which I can formally retire.”
Pakistan to defend Asian Champions Trophy title
Pakistan will defend their title at the third edition of the Asian Champions Trophy that will be played this November in Japan.
As many as six teams will vie in the tournament that will be played from November 2-10 in Kakamigahara.
The participating teams also include Oman, China, Malaysia and India besides the hosts.
As per the schedule announced by the Asian Hockey Federation, Pakistan will play their opening match against Oman on November 2, followed by China (November 3) and Malaysia (November 5). The greenshirts will play their third match against arch-rivals India after a day’s gap before playing their last league game against Japan on November 8.
Pakistan won the last edition in Doha in December 2012, defeating India 5-4 after a thrilling battle.
Published in The Express Tribune, September 13th, 2013.
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Waseem Ahmed, Pakistan’s most capped player, said true that Pakistan Hockey is not dead. But its also reality that it is on ventilator. Hope that new PHF management and young players will revive the national sport of Pakistan. We are optimistic, but for recovery, one has to accept the current situation.
Itä true hockey needs money