Former Pakistan hockey captain Ghazanfar Ali who played at the centre-half position has been selected to represent England’s 35+ hockey team in the World Cup which is to be held in Spain next year.
Ghazanfar Ali, who has previously represented Pakistan in 245 international matches and has also taken part in the Olympics, is the first Pakistani athlete to be selected in England 35+ team for the World Cup, which would be held between July 27-August 5, 2018 in Barcelona.
A graduate of the Punjab University, Ghazanfar Ali made it to the Pakistan junior side in 1997 and got promoted to the senior team in 2000. He represented Pakistan in the 2002 and 2006 Hockey World Cup as well as the 2004 Athens Olympics and 2002 Asian Games. He also headed Pakistan hockey team during the 2006 Champions Trophy.
Ghazanfar Ali shifted to England 10 years ago and became eligible to play for England after being granted British nationality. Continuing to serve hockey, he is also part of the central contract with the England hockey coaching development.
Speaking about his selection in the England team, Ghazanfar Ali said the feat is an honour for him and Pakistan.
“I am honoured to be the first Pakistani to be selected for England 35+ team which will be participating in the World Cup next year. I will try my best to live up to the expectations,” he said.