Thaindian News

Karachi, Oct 11 (IANS) The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF)says it is keen on reviving active hockey ties with India and it is working at all levels to see the two countries start playing bilaterally again.

PHF president Qasim Zia said Tuesday PHF was trying its best to resurrect bilateral hockey ties between the two countries in a bid to uplift standard of hockey in the region.

“The Pakistani High Commission in Delhi is also working to revive international hockey with India. Bilateral series with India will benefit both countries to boost the standard of the game,” he was quoted as saying in the Pakistani media.

Zia also said the federation was planning to start indoor hockey from next year so that the players could practice during the off season.

“We have a plan to introduce indoor hockey after the London 2012 Olympics. Hard surface fields can be arranged and that is the starting point for deciding on indoor hockey.”

He said hockey in Pakistan was on the right track and it would soon regain its lost status.

“We have set certain goals and soon Pakistan will be again among the world’s best,” he said.

On the inclusion of senior players in the team for the London Olympics, Zia said ample opportunities would be given to every player to get into the team irrespective of the age.

“Irrespective of their age, if they maintain required level of fitness to compete at the international level they will not be dropped from the team.”

He said a number of young players were selected in the squad for the inaugural Asian Champions Trophy to provide them exposure and experience at the international level as they were the country’s future.