LAHORE: Pakistan Hockey Federation is seeking permission from the government to organise the Pakistan and India hockey test series at the neutral venue of Dubai.
According to an official of the PHF, the board has gotten clearance from the Sports Minister, Interior Ministry and Foreign Ministry to go head on with India in the field of hockey. He further stated that the Indian Hockey Federation would also go through the same routine after showing its willingness to play against Pakistan. The hockey stadium in Dubai is awaiting opening and a Pakistan and India series at the venue would be an ideal event to inaugurate the facility.
An official of the PHF said the series would most likely be held in March and April, the only open time slot available to organise the matches between the two arch-rivals.
He further said the next target of the PHF is to win big events like the Olympics, World Cup and the Champions Trophy and for that the team needs proper preparation.
“By playing India in a bilateral series, both the Asian hockey giants would get enough exposure to bear the pressure of international matches,” he added. “The Pakistan hockey team is now targeting bigger tournaments including the 2012 Olympics and the World Cup after winning gold at the Asian Games,” stated PHF Secretary Asif Bajwa.
“The players are now motivated enough to target the next big title. Our win in China is the first step towards more success,” he added.
“Our next goals are the 2012 London Olympics and the 2014 World Cup for which we will give our best.” He further stated that after the series against India there will be World Hockey Series and then the Olympics. “We want the players to get maximum possible exposure and learn to play in pressure situations so that they are well-prepared for the big events,” he added. “We have achieved the first target and now the next aim is the reach the podium at the Olympics.
The PHF wants the Olympians to give their suggestions and it would be encouraging if they help the federation improve the game,” he added.
