Former Olympian proposes neutral venues for revival of hockey

Malaysia, China, Abu Dhabi and Dubai are some of the locations suggested by former national hockey team coach

ISLAMABAD: Hailing the nomination of Brigadier retired Khalid Sajjad Khokhar as the new chief of Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF), former Olympian Khawaja Muhammad Junaid suggested on Monday that efforts should be made to convince Asian teams to tour Pakistan.

Read: Pakistan hockey chief resigns after Olympic failure

Furthermore, he said should the teams be reluctant to tour the nation then the federation should arrange for a neutral venue, such as Dubai, for international competitions featuring the national side.

"Like Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), the PHF should also opt for some neutral venue until revival of international hockey takes place in the country," he told APP.

"There are several neutral venues including Malaysia, China, Abu Dhabi and Dubai where we can arrange hockey series with foreign teams," said the 1992 Olympics bronze medallist, who also served as national hockey team's coach during 2010-2012.

Although he listed several locations, he believes that Dubai is the most suitable site for a neutral series as it has excellent infrastructure and facilities.

"Besides there are several people in Dubai who can sponsor hockey matches," he said.

Junaid also believes that it will be easier to convince Asian teams to tour Pakistan as opposed to European teams which are very reluctant.

"I think China, Korea, Malaysia, Bangladesh or any other International Hockey Federation (FIH) affiliated outfit can be easily persuaded to visit Pakistan in the near future. This will be very good for Pakistan hockey. It will not only end the drought of hosting international level hockey events in the country but also revitalize our youngsters' interest towards the national game."

In response to a question, Junaid hailed Brigadier (Rtd.) Khokar’s nomination as PHF president saying that Khokar is someone who is fully aware of Pakistan hockey's ups and downs and prudent decision making is expected from him.

"He (Khokhar) is a wise man. He has full knowledge of hockey and I'm sure under him Pakistan hockey is going to flourish."

For hockey's improvement, he said the new PHF chief would have to work simultaneously on short term, medium term and long term plans.

"Initially he will have to give a short plan of two to three years that should include players' development plan.

"The federation should get engaged in talks with various departments and organizations and try to get jobs for at least 200 budding players so that they may feel secure and focus on their game only," he added.