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All the news for Tuesday 9 April 2019

2019 FIH Pro League (Men) - Upcoming

10 Apr 2019 20:30 GMT +2)     BEL v ESP (RR)     Royal Uccle Sport, Brussels

2019 FIH Pro League (Women) - Upcoming

10 Apr 2019 18:30 (GMT +2)    BEL v USA (RR)     Royal Uccle Sport, Brussels
10 Apr 2019 18:45 (GMT +2)     NED v CHN (RR)     SV Kampong, Utrecht

Live streaming and full game replay on https://fih.live (Geo blocked if there is TV coverage)

FIH Match Centre

FIH Pro League Scouting Report: USWNT vs. Belgium



In anticipation of the U.S. Women's National Team's upcoming FIH Pro League match, here is a scouting report you’ll want to review before the starting whistle.

Game Day: Wednesday, April 10, 2019

Time: 12:30 p.m. ET

Location: Brussels, Belgium

Live Stream: Don't miss a second of the FIH Pro League action and watch the USWNT take on Belgium this Wednesday afternoon. The FIH has signed a four-year media rights agreement with Bleacher Report Live for the territories of Canada and the United States. Bleacher Report Live is operated by Turner Sports, a division of WarnerMedia. The platform, which is Turner’s live sports streaming service, will be the primary destination for all fans to watch FIH Pro League matches.

FIH Pro League single games are available paid per view for $2.99 per match or $19.99 for the FIH Pro League 2019 Season Pass (all matches). Click here for the FIH Pro League live stream landing page.

Opponent: Belgium

FIH World Ranking: 13

Head to Head: Nearly two weeks since their thrilling finish at Spooky Nook Sports in Lancaster, Pa., these two teams are ready for round two in their FIH Pro League matchups. In front of the home crowd on March 29, the red, white and blue went nine rounds in a shootout against the Red Panthers. The nail biting finish was set up by an early goal by Belgium’s Alix Gerniers in the 5th minute. Momentum swung back and forth into the second half before Danielle Grega deflected a cross by Caitlin Van Sickle into the goal to tie the game 1-1. Heading into the shootout, USA was up 2-1 after three rounds, but Belgium was able to tie on their final attempt to force sudden victory. After successfully scoring in the next round, both teams failed to convert their next two tries. In round nine, Linnea Gonzales hit a backhand shot into the goal to give USA their first victory of the FIH Pro League, earning an extra point in the 5-4 shootout.

Prior to FIH Pro League, the two squads met in November 2018 on the same turf in Lancaster, with the Red Panthers prevailing in two matches. In the first game the Red Panthers pressed early, eventually paying off with a 1-0 advantage at the end of the first quarter. USA was just as fierce offensively but ultimately could not capitalize on their chances like their counter parts falling 0-2. In the second match, tied 2-2 entering the final frame, USA pulled ahead late in the contest when Kathleen Sharkey scored off a rebound off Belgium's goalkeeper Elodie Picard’s pads, giving USA the 3-2 victory. In the final game, after being down 1-0 in the second half, Belgium responded with four unanswered goals to win the series by a final of 4-1.

Before their November match-up in the winter elements of Lancaster, Pa., it had been over six years since these two teams met in the 11th/12th place game of the London 2012 Olympic Games. In a similar meeting, USA struck first before Belgium pulled ahead for a 2-1 win.

What You Need to Know: At the time of writing, Belgium was the lowest ranked of all the teams competing in the inaugural edition of the FIH Pro League. However, do not let that fool you into thinking that all other nations will be looking at the Red Panthers as an easy opponent. Belgium has been on an impressive rise in recent years and, following the men’s stunning victory at the Odisha Hockey Men’s World Cup Bhubaneswar 2018, the talented women’s team will be determined to show the world just how competitive they have become. A tenth place finish at the Vitality Hockey Women’s World Cup London 2018 contained some fine performances including a 6-3 thrashing of Japan as well as draws against eventual semifinalists Australia and Spain, although the meeting against the latter ended in an agonizing shootout defeat.

Ten members of the initial FIH Pro League squad selected by Head Coach Niels Thijssen have surpassed the 100 international appearances marker, four of which have all played more than 200 times for the Red Panthers. Team captain Anouk Raes, Emilie Sinia, Barbara Nelen and Jill Boon – sister of Red Lions’ World Cup winning forward Tom Boon – having all represented their country more than 200 times. On their day, the European silver medalists from 2017 will be a match for anyone.

Recap of Belgium’s Last Game: Belgium women continued their sparkling form in the FIH Pro League with yet another victory over higher-ranked opposition, powering to a 4-1 win against China as the Royal Uccle Sports Complex in Brussels played host to the Red Panthers’ first home match in the competition.

An enthused crowd watched with joy as Alix Gerniers hit a hat-trick to ensure that Belgium marked their FIH Pro League home debut in winning fashion. It was Belgium's third victory in five matches - four of which have been on the road - for the team coached by Niels Thijssen, as the ever-improving Europeans moved ahead of Australia and into third in the standings. Belgium have claimed 66.67 percent of the points available in their five matches played to date, with defeat for China leaving them second from bottom of the standings with 25.93 percent.

Despite being the lowest ranked team in the competition, No. 13 Belgium have already provided plenty of evidence in this inaugural edition of the FIH Pro League that they are force to be reckoned with. Following a 2-0 defeat at the hands of Argentina in Cordoba in their opening fixture, the Red Panthers snatched wins in both New Zealand (1-0) and Australia (2-1) in February before recently suffering a slight set-back in their narrow shootout defeat against USA in Lancaster.

Belgium’s match day opponents No. 10 China have proven to be stubborn opponents in all of their eight FIH Pro League matches leading up to today's fixture, with notable home wins over Germany (2-1) and New Zealand (1-0) being coupled with two strong showings against current league leaders Argentina, with Las Leonas winning 1-0 both home and away.

The host nation found themselves under pressure in the early stages of their FIH Pro League home debut, but soon found their rhythm and created the better of the chances in the first quarter. Ye Jiao, China’s world class goalkeeper, made excellent reaction saves to deny efforts from Emma Puvrez, Ambre Ballenghien and Emilie Sinia, while a Gu Bingfeng penalty corner drag-flick was expertly charged down by the Belgium defense.

China’s resistance was eventually broken in the 22nd minute by Alix Gerniers, who crashed a backhand strike through the legs of Ye a moment after the lively Ballenghien rattled the frame of the goal with a penalty corner deflection. Whilst it was a lead that Belgium unquestionably deserved, the Red Panthers were perhaps a little fortunate to maintain their slender advantage going into half time. Peng Yang had the best chance in the latter stages of the second quarter, almost restoring parity with a clever diving deflection that travelled the wrong side of Belgium goalkeeper Aisling D’Hooghe’s left post.

China fought hard in the final quarter and reduced the deficit thanks to a smart backhand finish from Liang Meiyu, but it proved only a consolation as the Red Panthers continue to prove their quality at the highest possible level.

Belgium's Roster: Click Here

USFHA media release

It is tough when your family forget which country you are representing – An interview with Grace O’Hanlon



An Anzac Day battle where she will line up in goal for the Vantage Black Sticks Women is a long way from Maryborough in Queensland, Australia where Grace O’Hanlon grew up. O’Hanlon endeared herself to New Zealand’s sporting public in 2018 when her shootout performance against England in the semifinal of the Commonwealth Games saw her help New Zealand into the final and ultimately the Gold Medal. Ahead of the Anzac Day match Grace spoke to us and provided some insights into New Zealand culture and her Australian accent.

Q - How difficult is it to line up against Australia?

Grace – It is tough, though playing with some of the Australian girls for so many years does add a bit of inside knowledge on occasion. I feel as if I have something to prove to them. Hands down, Australia vs New Zealand matches are my favourite. It does always make it tough when half of your family are there in yellow, when they forget which country you are representing.

Q – Does playing Australia provide you any extra motivation?

Grace – Most Certainly. I am lining up against some of my oldest and best friends. At the end of the day, after a loss to strangers, you never have to see or speak to them. Friends you do, it is much nicer to look your friends in the eye the next day as a winner.

Q – What has been the hardest part about adjusting to New Zealand Culture?

Grace – Australians are loud and obnoxious (in an endearing way). I never quite realized how much so until I moved to New Zealand, where everyone is much more mellow. I have tried to adjust and tone it down – though you may need to ask my teammates if I’ve managed that.

Q – What aspect of being an Australian does the team wind you up about the most?

Grace – The true-blue accent. I can’t win. Even when I try to adopt an “iccent” I tend to cop heat for trying too hard. I also call Countdown “Woolworths” and that tends to really rile everyone up

Q – Why do you think the rivalry between the two countries is so intense?

Grace – We love to hate each other. Siblings love each other, but when there’s a contest to be had its generally to the death.

Grace and the Vantage Black Sticks Women will be taking to the turf against Australia on Anzac Day (April 25th). Make sure you are at North Harbour Hockey Stadium to check out all the action as the New Zealand Women look to make it two wins in a row against the Hockeyroos.

https://premier.ticketek.co.nz/Shows/show.aspx?sh=EAKL0000019SP

Hockey New Zealand Media release

Dharmaraj's girls give World No 9 India a fright

By Jugjet Singh


Malaysia’s Hanis Onn (right) and India’s Minz Lilima (centre) vie for the ball in Monday’s Third Test at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil. PIC BY MAHZIR MAT ISA

BUKIT JALIL: The national women’s team did the unthinkable when they held India 4-4 in Monday’s Third Test at the National Stadium here.

However, K. Dharmaraj’s side were on the brink of recording a famous win when they led 4-2 at one stage but World No 9 India bounced back to avoid defeat.

"It is still a good result even though we could not defend our lead.

"In the Asia Cup (in 2017), we led 4-2 against China but lost 5-4 in the end.

“I see positives in this match and hopefully, the team will keep this momentum in Wednesday’s (tomorrow) game," said Dharmaraj yesterday.

India were again sharp in the semi-circle but blunt in midfield, which was controlled for long periods by the Malaysian girls.

And when they took a 2-0 through Navjot Kaur (13th minute) and Navneet Kaur (22nd), it looked like Malaysia would suffer another heavy defeat.

Undeterred, Dharmaraj side’s fired back through Kirandeep Kaur in the 26th minute.

Nuraini Rashid then scored from a penalty corner to draw level and the Malaysians held on until half-time.

Nuramirah Rashid scored Malaysia’s third in the 35th minute before Nuraini netted her second from a penalty corner to make it 4-2 for Malaysia.

However, India fought back and scored through Navneet (45th) and Lalremsiami (54th) for the draw.

In the opening test matches, India won 3-0 and 5-0.

New Straits Times

Navneet Kaur scores brace as Indian women's hockey team get two goals in final quarter to rescue draw against Malaysia


The Indian team continued their unbeaten run in the series by scoring a couple of late goals to end the match as a draw. Twitter@TheHockeyIndia

Kuala Lumpur: Navneet Kaur struck twice as the Indian women's hockey team overcame a 2-4 setback in the third quarter to level the scores 4-4 in their third match against Malaysia in the five-match series on Monday.

Though it was India who established a strong position after taking an early 2-0 lead, the team made too many errors inside the circle while defending which led to conceding back-to-back PCs.

Malaysia, on the other hand, ensured these opportunities were converted to goals.

After Navjot Kaur scored a goal in the 13th minute and Navneet found the back of the net in the 22nd minute to give India a good start, Gurdip Kirandeep of Malaysia scored the team's first goal in the 26th minute to narrow the Malaysian deficit to 1-2.

This was Malaysia's first goal of the tournament after losing to India 0-3 and 0-5 in the previous two matches.

This goal propelled Malaysia to test the Indian defenders. An infringement on India's part gave away a PC which Nuraini Rashid scored with ease.

Two more PCs were converted by Nuramirah Zulkifli in the 35th minute and Nuraini Rashid scored again in the 38th minute to take a 4-2 lead in the third quarter.

India, however, bounced back in the final quarter with two brilliant goals scored by Navneet in the 45th minute and Lalremsiami in the 54th minute as the visitors settled for a draw.

"Obviously this wasn't our best match, we must forget this and move on," Chief India coach Sjoerd Marijne said.

He further emphasized that the team cannot get away with making too many technical errors.

"The girls were too easy going today which resulted in them making too many technical errors in ball possession but we hope to bounce back in the next match," he added.

Firstpost

Subahan calls on seniors to step up their game

By T. Avineshwaran


Thank you: Coach Roelant Oltmans (second from left) receiving Adidas bagpacks from MHC president Datuk Seri Subahan Kamal (third from left) during the players’ meeting at the National Hockey Stadium yesterday. — Bernama

PETALING JAYA: It’s now-or-never for the senior players in the national hockey team to prove their worth.

Malaysia Hockey Confederation (MHC) president Datuk Seri Suba­han Kamal has challenged seniors – Muhd Razie Abdul Rahim, S. Kumar, Tengku Ahmad Tajud­din Tengku Abdul Jalil and Shukri Mutalib – to step up and show their hunger to qualify for the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo.

Malaysia’s quest for the Olympics starts with the FIH World Series Finals at the National Hockey Stadium in Bukit Jalil from April 26-May 4.

Subahan said it was time for the players to repay the faith they have in them.

“MHC have done their best for these boys. We have paid their salaries on time, and we’ve fulfilled our promises to the players for the last four years,” he said after meeting the national players at the National Hockey Stadium in Bukit Jalil yesterday.

“It’s time for them to pay back and repay our faith.

“Not all of them can play after the Olympics in Tokyo. I don’t know whether Kumar can play until the age of 44-45. He is not Superman. Even Tengku’s time is short because lots of youngsters are coming up.

“These senior players should take this opportunity to end their careers as an Olympian. I want them to prove me that they are the best and they can do it,” he said.

The side led by Dutch head coach Roelant Oltmans have been placed in Pool B in the FIH World Series together with China, Brazil and Italy.

Subahan said the team have to finish top to get into the Olympic qualifiers, which is scheduled to be held in November.

“We’ve to show that we’re a class above in this tournament. We want the players to be motivated.

Oltmans said the team would have a warm-up match against Wales on April 23 and the squad will be finalised on April 19.

Syed Mohamad Syafiq Syed Cholan, Shahril Saabah, and Najib Abu Hassan are back in training but Kumar and Shukri will undergo a fitness test on Thursday to determined whether they can play.

When asked if the team had a chance to win the FIH World Series, Oltmans said, “I’m optimistic that we can win this tournament.”

China are a threat in their pool but Oltmans is confident that they can get a positive result.

“We’ve all the information from the team’s World Cup performance. We are aware of their qualities and we have the tactics to beat China.”

The Star of Malaysia

Graham Reid named chief coach of India’s men’s hockey team

Will join the team at the national camp in Bengaluru

Uthra Ganesan


On board: John Reid brings to the table his vast experience as coach of Australia and the Netherlands. 

Hockey India, on Monday, confirmed the appointment of Graham Reid as chief coach of the India men’s hockey team.

The 54-year-old Reid is likely to join the team midway through the national camp in Bengaluru that commenced on Monday.

While Reid’s name had been doing the rounds for a while now, his appointment was all but confirmed when HI and the Sports Authority of India (SAI) forwarded it for final clearance to the Sports Ministry late last month.

Differences sorted out

There had been reports of differences over his salary but the federation has now ended all speculation. Unlike previous coaches, he would be moving base to Bengaluru with his family.

“Graham Reid is backed by a successful career as a player.

He also comes with strong coaching experience, having worked with the Australian and the Netherlands national teams.

“We are hopeful his experience and expertise will help the Indian team achieve desirable results leading up to and at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics,” HI president Mohd. Mushtaque Ahmad said.

Reid took over as Australia coach in 2014 and won a series of titles before a disappointing Olympic outing in 2016 ended the association.

He then moved to the Netherlands as assistant to Max Caldas in 2017 and head coach of Amsterdam HC. He was part of the Australian side that won silver at the Barcelona Olympics.
Exciting team

“It’s an honour to be appointed as chief coach of the Indian team.

“As an opposition coach I have enjoyed watching the steady rise of one of the most exciting and threatening teams in world hockey.

“I have a passion for the fast and attacking brand of hockey that India plays which marries closely with the Australian style,” Reid said.

His first big assignment would be the Hockey Series Finals in June, one of the qualifying events for the Tokyo Olympics.

The Hindu

Graham Reid gets Charlesworth’s backing

His approach will fit India’s skills-set and general approach, says Aussie legend

Uthra Ganesan


Ric Charlesworth. Photo Credit: BiswaranjanRout

The Indian men’s month-long hockey camp began coach-less on Monday morning, but by evening new chief coach Graham Reid’s appointment was confirmed by Hockey India.

Reid’s appointment had been held up by the Sports Ministry following differences over his salary. But even before the news of his confirmation became official, Reid received a vote of confidence from Ric Charlesworth, the man considered the undisputed guru of modern hockey.

Reid was assistant to Charlesworth with Australia for six years before the latter called it a day after winning the 2014 World Cup. Reid was asked to step into his shoes.

Aware

“Reid knows the international scene and all teams and players — that is crucial for someone taking over, with the Olympics next year,” Charlesworth told The Hindu.

Unlike many, Charlesworth is also aware of the present Indian set-up, having watched closely during the 2018 World Cup as part of the expert broadcast panel. And he believes Reid is the best person to help the team take the next step.

“He is the best person to help (India) as his approach will fit India’s skills-set and general approach. They are less effective if they play ‘safe’. India is on the cusp yet need a little more belief and some polishing to take the next step,” he said.

Interestingly, Charlesworth also hoped former National coach Harendra Singh would be part of the set-up.

“Reid is a good collaborator and will be able to work with those already there — I expect Harendra might be able to contribute too,” Charlesworth said.

Also interesting would be to see how Reid handles the senior players in the side under the current policy of ‘younger legs’.

Word of caution

Charlesworth had axed the likes of Jamie Dwyer after 2014 to build a new Aussie team for Rio but Reid brought them back, insisting there was no substitute for experience.

Charlesworth, however, had a word of caution. “I believe they need to give Reid the time to make a difference.

“The biggest threat is he may not be given the time to polish this team — he needs to start soon,” he said.

The Hindu

‘Want stable environment’

From Ric Charlesworth to Roelant Oltmans, most of India’s foreign hockey coaches had a tumultuous ride and the newly-appointed chief coach Graham Reid’s biggest desire is to have a “stable environment” for himself as well as his players.

“What I want is a stable environment for me as well as the players,” Reid said from Amsterdam.

In fact, it was the legendary Charlesworth, who goaded him to apply for the India coach’s job. “I had a very long discussion with Ric and he thought it was good time for me to move to India. He feels I have the experience at international level to take Indian hockey forward,” Reid said.

Reid said he never had any apprehensions about applying for this high-pressure job as it was a “secret desire” that he had harboured for a long time. “To be honest, I didn’t have any apprehensions as such. I have been to India many times and have also worked with the Hockey India League teams,” said Reid. The job of the Indian hockey coach is always regarded as a high-pressure job for any coach but Reid begs to differ. “Pressure only comes in your mind. We should instead focus on what we can control as results will come from that,” he said. The 54-year-old said he loves India’s style of play. “Of course, it is a huge challenge but I am looking forward to it. When a coach starts his career, he has a secret desire to coach India someday and I am no exception. I love the way India play,” Reid said.

“I am not thinking too far ahead. I believe in living in the present. What I know is that we have a tour to Australia before the Olympics qualifiers (Hockey Series Finals in Bhubaneswar) and I want to get everybody focused,” he added.

Insisting that his primary focus will be on the basics of hockey, Reid said India’s defensive structure needs a major overhaul. “I would like to continue with the improvement India are making without tinkering with their original style. My emphasis would be on the basics, working on the principles. I would like to get our coaching structure right and communication clear. India have experience but they need resilience,” said the former Australian coach.

The Tribune

India after all gets a Coach in Graham Reid

s2h Team

When the mighty Australians outplayed The Netherlands in the World Cup final in The Hague five years ago, Graham Reid was Richard Charlesworth's Deputy coach. Any sensible nation, that too if they have good purse, would have lapped it up either of them to coach their national team. But India preferred later the losing team's Chief Coach, Stephen Van Ass, only to 'fire' him soon.

Five years down the lane, as the irony would have it, the scenario changes.

Graham Reid is back to India following the long list of foreign coaches who had the 'taste' of India.

Graham Reid had been a great player being double Olympian for his country, and had enough coaching experience under legendary Ric.

Grahm Reid succeeded Ric after The Hague explosion. But results proved he his nowhere near his master's.

Australia was World No.1 team when he stepped into fill up the shoes of Ric. But he had to oversee the team crashing out of Semi-final in Rio.

Expectedly, Australia did an India: He had to demote himself and went on to fit in with Dutch system not as Chief, but as Assistant Coach.

India therefore did not bring a coach whose recent performace was on upswing, but definitely on decline.

India pays huge salary to its Chief Coach thanks to Sports Authority of India's generosity, but due to Hockey India's quixodic approach, it had to satisfy with coaches who could not sustain in thier homeland.

Having said this, there is a need to welcome new coach. After all we have a coach now. So what if the Probables have already been selected!

There is a strong view in India that Reid's predecessor Harendra is still best suited for the job. Those who advocate this view should ask the players for the answer. Its Indian players, who have led him down.

For, Harendra Singh was never a choice of Hockey India. We don't know the reason. The fact is that, many insiders claim, that Harendra would have never been made it to the top seat but for Lucknow. The players who won the Junior World Cup in Lucknow, and the kind of public adulation it had elicited, have got him Harendra into the zone of consideration in the first place.

He was given the women's mantle. At the same time, players failed 'Swap' coach Sjoerd Marijne in the Commonwealth Games. Hockey India had to make Harendra the Men's chief coach.

Indian players let Harendra down in Jakarta. They had a chance to amend for Jakarta in Bhubneswar. It was also not to be. It paved way for another foreign coach. Now we have Reid.

If India has cycles of coaches its all due to Indian players' who hardly surprise us with good results like the Japanese did in Jakarta or the Argenteneans in Rio.

Today, India has the dubious history of having a new coach every year since last 30 years. It did not stop as welcoming Reid.

Stick2Hockey.com

Stats Speak: Graham Reid is the 53rd coach of Indian men’s hockey since Moscow Olympics (1980)

By B.G.Joshi (Sehore-Bhopal, India)

130 caps and 36 goals are the stats of Australian Graham Reid as a Kookaburra’s player.

Graham won 4 Gold medals in Champions trophy (1984, 85, 89 and 90).

Born on April 9, 1964(today is birthday) Graham was the midfielder of Australian team during 1984-1992. Australia won Champions Trophy twice (2012 and 2016) under his coaching.

Here are statistical highlights of Indian men’s hockey coaches in last 39 years:

 Abb: OG-Olympic Games,   WC-World Cup, CT-Champions Trophy, HWL-Hockey World League, AZ-Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, SAG-South Asian Games, AG-Asian Games, AC-Asia Cup, ACT-Asian Champions Trophy, CWG-Commonwealth Games.

Fieldhockey.com

Reid won't last, says ex-India coach Michael Nobbs

Ex-India coach Michael Nobbs believes fellow Australian Graham Reid, who was appointed India's new hockey coach yesterday, won't survive beyond Olympics

Ashwin Ferro



Hockey India (HI) was on familiar turf yesterday when they announced a new chief coach for the men's hockey team. Australian Graham Reid, 54, is the eighth such appointment since 2010. He has been handed a contract till the 2020 Tokyo Olympics with a provision for a performance-linked extension till the 2022 World Cup.

However, Reid's compatriot and a victim of HI's hire and fire policy, Michael Nobbs, is convinced he won't last that long. "Graham has a very tough job. I don't think he'll make it to 2022. He first needs to help India qualify for the Olympics. Though that's relatively easy as the qualifier will be played at home and teams will be ranked below India, he then has to ensure India win a medal in Tokyo. Anything less is an abject failure because India has spent a lot of money and time to develop a team worthy of a medal," Nobbs told mid-day from Sydney.


Michael Nobbs

Nobbs was hired by HI under similar circumstances eight years ago, and cleared his first hurdle of helping India qualify for the 2012 Olympics. But India finished last at the Games and he then began to feel the pressure, both mentally and physically, following which he returned home.

Nobbs also felt that Reid is not one of the best coaches available in the market now.

"Given the timing of coach Harendra Singh's removal [after India's quarter-final exit at the 2018 World Cup], the number of qualified and successful coaches available is limited. All the top coaches are already hired for the Olympics and any person taking the job now is a second choice. Graham is a nice guy but that won't help him in the lead-up to the qualifiers or Olympics. It's going to require tough handling of players and the politics that will ensue. Also, Graham's strategies have not been hugely successful. His sudden departure from Amsterdam due to poor results highlights this," explained Nobbs referring to Reid's exit as chief coach of Amsterdam Hockey Club last month soon after they lost 2-8 to Hague-based HGC.

Compounding Reid's problems is India's runner-up finish at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup recently which is proof that the team is not in best of shape. Nobbs blamed Hockey India for this: "I've been part of the Indian team's grooming process and with Harendra's work, we felt India would be a medal contender in Tokyo. But Hockey India's reckless changes have now made it a game of chance. Good luck to Graham."

Who is Graham Reid?

Graham Reid is a former Australian midfielder who won the silver medal at 1992 Barcelona Olympics. He also won back-to-back Champions Trophies in 1984, 1985 and 1989, 1990 and has 130 international caps. He began coaching in 2009 and was appointed Australia's assistant coach. He became head coach and guided the team to its fifth consecutive Champions Trophy title in 2012. He also helped the World No. 1 team win the World League Semi-Final in Antwerp and World League Final in Raipur in December 2015. He is a Queensland Hockey Hall of Famer. He moved to the Netherlands in 2017 and became head coach of the Amsterdam Hockey Club which he played for in 1993 and 1994. He was assistant coach of the Netherlands team that won the silver medal at the 2018 World Cup.

Indian hockey coaches since 2010

* Jose Brasa (May 2009 to Nov 2010)
* Michael Nobbs (2011-2013)
* Terry Walsh (2013-2015)
* Paul van Ass (Jan 2015 to June 2015)
* Roelant Oltmans (2015-'17)
* Sjoerd Marijne (2017-2018)
* Harendra Singh (May 2018-January 2019)

Mid-Day

Govers experience will help us prepare better for FIH Series Finals: SV Sunil



As part of their preparations for the 2020 Olympic Qualifiers, Hockey India has invited former Australian striker Kieran Govers to work with the Indian Men’s Hockey Team strikers during the on-going National Camp which commenced on 8 April 2019 at the Sports Authority of India, Bengaluru.

Govers who was part of the Australian team that won the Men’s World Cup in 2010 and 2014 arrived in Bengaluru on Monday for a 8-day special camp for strikers.  “I am truly excited to return to India. I have some really fond memories of playing in this hockey-crazy country,” expressed Govers.

“I have been following the Indian team’s progress very closely and I believe they have great potential. In the next few days I will be working with the forwards to see how we can improve their efficiency inside the circle and when the opponents’ marking is tight how can we convert. We will also be doing some video analysis from the recent Sultan Azlan Shah Cup to dissect where the strikers could have done better. The whole idea is to help improve the conversion rate,” stated the 31-year-old NSW star after working with the strikers on Tuesday morning.

Having Govers in Bengaluru ahead of the Indian team’s important campaign at the FIH Men’s Series Finals Bhubaneswar Odisha 2019, ace striker SV Sunil said, “His experience will immensely help our forwards. He was one of the best strikers for Australia and he is extremely good in pressing, goal scoring and positioning inside the circle. These are the areas our team needs improvement and there are many good things we can learn from him.”

On inviting an experienced striker like Govers to work with the Indian forwards, David John, Hockey India’s High Performance Director said, “It is good for our strikers to use the experience of Kieran Govers. He has played against most of the Indian players and understands their short-comings well. Our players relate to him and since he is still their contemporary, I am sure the sessions will be more interactive, exciting and fast-paced. Govers was part of the Australian leadership group and I believe his stint with the team will help in our preparations of the FIH Men’s Series Finals Bhubaneswar Odisha 2019.”

The players who will be working closely with Govers during the National Camp include Akashdeep Singh, Ramandeep Singh, SV Sunil, Lalit Kumar Upadhyay, Simranjeet Singh, Gurjant Singh, Mandeep Singh, Sumit Kumar, Shamsher Singh, Armaan Qureshi, Abharan Sudev Belimagga, Mohd Raheel Mouseen, Harsahib Singh, Dilpreet Singh, Gursahibjit Singh, Shilanand Lakra and Atif Ateeq.

Inside Sport

Railways 'reject' from Manipur dribbles his way to India hockey probables via Mumbai

On Sunday, however, Keisham was drafted into the list of 60 probables for the senior national men's hockey camp that commenced in Bengaluru on Monday.

By Rutvick Mehta
 

Roshan Keisham Roshan Keisham (L) caught the eye of David John in Nationals this year

At the age of 15, Roshan Keisham packed his bags, left his home in Manipur and came to Mumbai with the hope of pursuing his hockey dream as well as landing a stable job to support his family.

That was in 2009, and over the following decade, he did manage to get a job with the Railways but wasn't considered good enough to be a part of even their hockey team's camp, let alone the team.

On Sunday, however, Keisham was drafted into the list of 60 probables for the senior national men's hockey camp that commenced in Bengaluru on Monday.

The defender caught the eye of Hockey India high-performance director David John during the senior national championships in Gwalior earlier this year.

"I'm very surprised to be here," the 25-year-old Keisham said from the camp in Bengaluru.

"I have struggled with my hockey career for the last 4-5 years. I didn't get to play for even the Railways team, and here I am directly in the India probables camp."

Keisham's hockey journey began in Khonzman, a small village in Manipur that has given the country players like Chinglensana Singh, who was the vice-captain of the Indian team in the 2018 Hockey World Cup.

Attracted to the sport by watching his seniors play in school, Keisham honed his skills but couldn't do much about it due to his family's financial condition.

Eager to support his parents, elder sister and a younger brother, Keisham took the advice of his town-mate Chinglensana, who asked him to migrate to Mumbai in order to find a job as well as give his hockey a shot.

Little did he know that setting foot at the Mumbai Hockey Association (MHA) ground for a training camp would change his life almost a decade later.

"This boy had just come to Mumbai from Manipur, and was training with some 40-50 other boys at the MHA. I spotted him playing, and ever since then I thought he'll make it at the top at some point," Joaquim Carvalho, former Olympian and national hockey coach, said.

Carvalho — who was part of the MHA back then — drafted him into the junior Mumbai team, and Keisham made a mark almost immediately.

He led Mumbai to a silver medal in the U-17 sub-junior national hockey championships in 2011, and yet his career couldn't quite take off from there.

That's until earlier this year, when he managed to generate some curiosity in the Nationals in Gwalior.

"(India player) Kothajit (Singh) told me David (John) was asking him about me. Kotha bhai motivated me to play well in the following match, saying people are watching you," Keisham said.

His mentor Carvalho believes Keisham is an ideal player in the world of total hockey played currently, and felt he should make it to the Indian team in at least a year or two, if not before.

"He has got all ingredients of becoming a top all-round hockey player. He has good agility, good speed, good tackling skills and a good vision," he said.

"I am quite surprised that he doesn't find a place in the Railways team. He is a versatile player who can play anywhere. And in today's hockey, you require defenders who can push forward," Carvalho added.

Having secured a job with the Railways since 2013, Keisham is satisfied that he has made it to a position where he can support his family in Manipur. At the hockey front, though, he has some unfulfilled desire.

"I'm happy I have a job, but I want to achieve more in hockey. My first aim is to get selected in the core 33 group, and then my dream is to be a part of the Indian team," Keisham said.

Daily News & Analysis

Greg Nicol looks for new challenges outside of Hockey

Following a long association with Hockey New Zealand since 2007, which has seen stints as both the Black Sticks Men’s and Women’s assistant coaches, Greg Nicol has decided to take on new challenges which are further afield from hockey.

In 2017 Greg Nicol took on the challenge of a newly created role in Hockey New Zealand as the Athlete Pathway Manager. In this role Greg has worked successfully in laying the foundations for a national talent development system for hockey in New Zealand. This also included setting up talent spotter networks to improve the consistency of talent identification and selection processes at the Under 18, 21 and Development levels across both genders.

Greg’s coaching involvement with Hockey New Zealand’s National teams extends back to 2007-2008 when he was the Assistant Coach for the Vantage Black Sticks Men for the Beijing Olympics, a feat he repeated for the Rio Olympics in 2016. In between this time, he was an Assistant Coach for the Vantage Black Sticks Women at the London Olympics in 2012.

Hockey New Zealand’s High Performance Director Paul MacKinnon said “Greg’s input, initiatives and contribution to the inaugural National Athlete Pathway Manager role has been outstanding, paving the way ahead for a joined-up structure and system of talent identification and development at the National and Regional level. His ability as an elite coach will also be missed as he has made a high-level impact with the National teams he has worked with throughout his 12 years at Hockey New Zealand.”

Greg commented on his time at Hockey New Zealand, “I have enjoyed the last 12 years with Hockey New Zealand, and I am excited about the new opportunities and challenges I have ahead of me.”

Greg will finish up his roles on April 30th and recruitment for a replacement National Athlete Pathway Manager will commence in due course, to align with the Strategy Execution Plan which is currently being completed by Hockey New Zealand. Recruitment for a replacement Head Coach for the Under 21 Women’s team will begin immediately.

Hockey New Zealand Media release

Ireland U-21s to face France three times this week


Conor Empey is one of three returnees from the 2017 Euros. Pic: Adrian Boehm

The Irish Under-21 men will face France three times this week at Grange Road as part of their build-up to the European Junior Championships this summer.

Denis Pritchard – the current Cork C of I boss – is leading up the group for 2019 and he is delighted to have this confirmed series to test his troops.

“These games are a welcome opportunity to see where we are as a group with all squad players getting a chance to play,” he said. “It has been a while since Ireland’s Under-21 men have played a home game and it would be great to see a good crowd out to support these ambitious athletes.”

The focus of their schedule comes in July when they will aim for promotion from the European Junior Championships II in Litice, Czech Republic.

From the 2017 Euros, the side features Conor Empey, Mark Samuel and David Mawhinney once again.

Men’s Under-21 international series
Tuesday, April 9: Ireland v France, Grange Road, 7pm
Wednesday, April 10: Ireland v France, Grange Road, 7pm
Thursday, April 11: Ireland v France, Grange Road, 9am

Irish Under-21 panel: Luke Witherow (Banbridge), Scott McCabe (Queens), Alex Tinney (Banbridge), Andrew O’Hare (Annadale), Ben Palmer (Instonians), Ben Wallace (Annadale), Luke Roleston (Banbridge), Josh McCabe (GK, Cookstown), Matthew Crookshanks (Beeston), Craig Getty (Brooklands MU), Conor Empey (Three Rock Rovers), Sam Hyland (YMCA), Harry MacMahon (Three Rock Rovers), Matthew Walker (Three Rock Rovers), Peter Lynch (UCD), Alex Flynn (Three Rock Rovers), Guy Sarratt (Monkstown), Ben O’Grady (YMCA), David Mawhinney (Edinburgh Univerity), Mark Samuel (UCD), David Lawless (Clontarf), Alistair Empey (Three Rock Rovers), Ben Johnson (Waterford), Conor Beck (UCC), Harry McCarthy (Waterford)
Unavailable due to illness: Gavin Gibney (Glenanne)

The Hook

Junior Green Army secure precious home tournament


The Irish Under-21s have secured a strong Four Nations tournament at home. Pic: Adrian Boehm

The Irish Under-21 women’s side has secured a precious home tournament at Pembroke as they welcome Scotland, Canada and India in late May and early June for a vital preparation for the European Junior Championships.

The women’s summer Euros have the double-function of being a Junior World Cup qualifier and so it is a key to get a decent programme under their belt.

The series will be surrounded by four other challenge matches. As such, Dave Passmore has named a large panel with plenty of scope for movement in the coming months, partially with potential call-ups to the Irish senior panel, partially to keep players just above the Under-21 threshold involved in high-performance training to help progress their development.

Schoolgirls Amy Elliott, Caoimhe Perdue and Caitlin Sherin will not feature in the Four Nations tournament but are part of the panel for the summer camps.

From the 2017 Euros squad, Emma Buckley, Liz Murphy, Jessica McMaster, Sarah Torrans, Michelle Carey, Erin Getty, Hannah McLoughlin, Abbie Russell, Suzie Kelly and Ellen Curran are all still eligible.

Harvard University’s Siofra Murdoch is included in her first Irish panel. She was involved with US Under-16s before but has since declared for Ireland – her father Ali was a stalwart of Monkstown’s first team in the 1980s and 90s.

“We are delighted to have such a high quality tournament at this stage of our preparation and to have the additional matches against Canada and India will provide the players some great developmental opportunities and to experience different playing styles,” Passmore said of the main tournament.

“This event is only possible due to the ongoing support of our sponsor Eugene F Collins, the generous support of our donors and fantastic parents’ group.”

Due to donations and the supports arranged by the management and the squad, the group will not be required to fundraise for 2019.

Under-21 Women’s Four Nations Tournament (Pembroke, May 31 to June 4): Hannah Humphries (GK, UCC) Lizzie Murphy (GK, Loreto) **, Emma Buckley (GK, Royal Racing Club de Bruxelles) **, Hannah McLoughlin (UCD) **, Erin Getty (Co-Captain, Queens), Ellen Reid (Banbridge), Alana Doyle (Ards), Jane Kilpatrick (Loughborough Students), Grace McLoughlin (Loreto), Christina Hamill (Loreto), Michelle Barry (Co-Captain, Cork Harlequins), Michelle Carey (UCD), Erica Markey (Trinity), Ellen Curran (UCD) **, Abbie Russell (UCD), Sarah Torrans (Loreto) **, Jessica McMaster (Queens), Siofra O’Brien (Loreto), Laura Foley (Catholic Institute) Niamh Carey (UCD)

** denotes – if not selected for Senior Women
Reserves: Mia Jennings (Loreto), Yasmin Pratt (Muckross)

Unavailable due to Exams: Amy Elliott (Railway Union), Caoimhe Perdue (Cork Harlequins), Caitlin Sherin (Loreto)

The following will also participate in the non-tournament matches: Jade Arundell (GK, Michigan State, USA), Jenny Clein (UCC), Katherine Egan (UCD), Amy Elliott (Railway Union), Katie Fearon (Railway Union), Gemma Ferguson (GK, Ulster Elks), Niamh Gowing (Muckross), Nina Heisterkamp (UCD), Hannah Irwin (Ulster Elks), Mia Jennings (Loreto), Suzie Kelly (UCD), Jade Lamont (GK, Notts Trent/Beeston, England), Rebecca McConnell (Mossley), Sophie McDowell (Notts Trent/Beeston, England), Emily McStea (Queens), Siofra Murdoch (Havard University, USA), Yasmin Pratt (Muckross), Holly Taggart (Bristol Uni, England), Emma Young (UCD)

Fixture schedule
Sunday, May 26: Ireland v Canada, 6pm
Monday, May 27: Ireland v Canada, 6pm

Four Nations Tournament Matches (Pembroke Wanderers HC)
Friday, May 31: India v Canada, 4.30pm; IRELAND v Scotland, 6.30pm
Saturday, June 1: Scotland v Canada, 4.30pm; IRELAND v India, 6.30pm
Monday, June 3: India v Scotland, 2.30pm; IRELAND v Canada, 4.30pm
Tuesday, June 4: 3rd v 4th Play-off, 2.15pm; Final, 4.30pm

Thursday, June 6: Ireland v India, 3.30pm
Friday, June 7: Ireland v India, 6pm

The Hook

SA U21 IPT - Early moves by title favourites



The opening day of action at the 2019 South African Hockey Under 21 IPT got underway with the coldest day of the year in Johannesburg. The cold never stops the business side of things in Johannesburg and that’s exactly the approach that many of the favourites produced on the opening day.

In the Women’s tournament Witsies had to play in the coldest conditions of the day emerging 1-0 winners over Mpumalanga in the tournaments opening game. Gracious Mpe got the games only goal in the 11th minute. That was the closest any of the women’s games would run with KZN Raiders, Northern Blues, North West and Southern Gauteng in various routine victories.

Cerian Fourie, the younger sister of SA National player and Raiders captain Tegan Fourie, netted twice in a 4-1 win against WP Pens for the KZN Raiders. Angel Nkosi and Jean-Leigh du Toit both netted braces as Northern Blues were dismissive of the Free State challenge. North West underlined their own title credentials with a flawless 6-0 win over Eastern Province, Courtney du Preez getting two of the goals. Western Province also kept a clean sheet in a tough 4-0 win against Witsies. Leah Piggott contributing two of the goals.

The performance of the day was undoubtedly by Tsoanelo Pholo’s host side who beat the Northerns Daisies 9-1 in the final game of the day. An opening quarter blitz inspired by a Michelle Dykman hat-trick gave the hosts a 5-0 lead. They never looked back and had Lezaan Janse van Vuuren, who impressed in last years Premier Hockey League, to thank for another hat-trick that completed their dominance.

On the men’s side of the tournament there were three convincing victories, two classic battles and one thrilling stalemate. Let’s start with straight forward results. Southern Gauteng opened their account with a Spencer Botes hat-trick inspiring a 7-0 win against Northern Cape. Miguel da Graca’s side would have been expected to win their match, but he will be happy with the way they went about doing so!

North West added a 1 to the W column with Louis Nel and skipper Pierre Botma leading them to a business-like victory over the limited squad Mpumalanga. While WP Pens were comfortable in a 5-2 win against Eastern Province. Laython Coombs continues to enhance his reputation in a valiant display for the losing side, but it was Cameron Baker who will have fonder memories of this game.

It was of course the Pens second game of the day due to their being an odd number of teams and they will be happy to have got the win after losing their opener 3-2 to the Northern Blues. Sihle Ntuli’s men took an early lead before defending well to hold out the Pens from any late blushes.

The Northern Daisies were the victors in the battle of the “B” Teams when they took on the hosts “B” side Witsies. They were trailing 1-0 to the impressive Dalpiarro Langfords goal but a 51st minute strike by Hlumelo Mekuto and a late winner by Anthony Glutz gave Wayne Coetzee’s side the bragging rights.

The game of the day was however the battle between two of the biggest names of South African Hockey in Western Province and KZN Raiders. It also featured two of the games most entertaining and passionate coaches in Lungile Tsolekile and Michael Baker. It was a game littered with 5 yellow cards, 3 green cards and tons of heart. Jacque van Tonder gave Western Province the lead in the second quarter but just a minute later Caleb Carney levelled the scores. Keegan Gibbon then popped up with what looked like the match winner for Raiders in the final quarter but the highly impressive Idrees Abdulla stole the draw with the last play of the game!

After day 1’s superb hockey, we can’t wait for day 2.

SA U21 IPT – Results Day 1

Women’s Pool A

SG Witsies 1-0 Mpumalanga
KZN Raiders 4-1 WP Peninsula
Western Province 4-0 SG Witsies

Women’s Pool B

Northern Blues 5-1 Free State
North West 6-0 Eastern Province
Southern Gauteng 9-1 Northern Daisies

Men’s Pool A

Northern Daisies 2-1 SG Witsies
WP Peninsula 5-2 Eastern Province
Northern Blues 3-2 WP Peninsula

Men’s Pool B

Western Province 2-2 KZN Raiders
North West 4-0 Mpumalanga
Southern Gauteng 7-0 Northern Cape

SA Hockey Association media release

Forsyth and Surbiton buzzing for EHL KO16 clash with Waterloo Ducks



Surbiton’s goal machine Alan Forsyth says his side have an extra hunger to make up for lost time at the Euro Hockey League KO16/FINAL4.

The London club finished their regular season in first place last week, earning a European ticket for next season, with Forsyth topping the goal charts for a fourth successive year.

He followed up with a couple of goals in Argentina for Great Britain in their Pro League win. Now, the hunger is there to have an impact on the EHL, starting with their date against Waterloo Ducks in the KO16 (April 17, 15.15 CET).

Surbiton qualified to play in the EHL last season but chose not to take up their invite - their second appearance having reached the KO16 in 2014 - due to a clash with the Commonwealth Games and that only adds to Forsyth’s desire to get stuck in.

“I think there’s a bigger buzz about it this year due to the unfortunate circumstances of last season when we had to pull out because of the Commonwealth Games.

“We would have been missing three quarters of our team. I think that has given us the extra buzz, knowing we are playing this year and very much looking forward to it!”

They come up against a Waterloo side who have also topped their regular season standings, recording the best results of either section of their national competition.

And so Forsyth is wary of the massive task ahead of them to reach the KO8 for the first time against the likes of Vincent Vanasch, Gauthier Boccard, Simon Gougnard and John-John Dohmen.

“Waterloo have been a very good team for a number of years. They have been on good form in their league so we know it will be tough.

“We know they have some great players even beyond their World Cup Gold medalists so I think it will be an exciting match and I hope we can progress to the next round.”

Surbiton, themselves, have plenty of high level performers in their side with Forsyth joined by fellow Scottish stars Chris Grassick, Tim Atkins, Nick Parkes and the recently retired Willie Marshall; England internationals like Brendan Creed, David Goodfield, Harry Gibson Tom Sorsby, Luke Taylor, Zach Wallace and James Gall and Welsh player Lewis Prosser.

Forsyth has prior experience of the competition having played with Kelburne on three occasions, helping his boyhood club earn a draw with Real Club de Polo and beating AHTC Wien among the highlights.

“I have many memories from my time at Kelburne; it was my first ever hockey team and I have only played at two clubs. Highlights for me are definitely playing in the EHL which is an amazing tournament and being part of the team who won the Scottish league 13 years in a row!”

His goals were key then as they were now with debate whether he is the most prolific striker from open play abounding recently after his run of 28 goals in 14 games with 18 from the field.

He refuses to be drawn too much on his prolific ways: “I think there’s lots and lots of top players out there who score a lot of goals, players like Mirco Prusyer are players I look at who are very clinical in the D.

“In our team we score lots of goals and at the moment I am at the end of it but I believe we have lots of players within our team who can put the ball in the net so there’s plenty confidence when we get the opportunity.”

Next on the agenda are the English finals weekend on April 13 and 14, starting with a Saturday morning semi-final against East Grinstead in Lee Valley. And then it is full steam ahead for the KO16 and their WatDucks date.

Euro Hockey League media release

Fairy tale start for Western Jaguars

By AYUMBA AYODI


Western Jaguars' Aaron Kutwa dribbles past Kenya Police's Victor Wekesa during their Kenya Hockey Union men's premier league match on September 22, 2018 at City Park Stadium. PHOTO | CHRIS OMOLLO |  NATION MEDIA GROUP

It’s a fairy tale start for Western Jaguars in the Kenyan men’s hockey Premier League after they claimed two stunning victories to scale to the top of the league standings after the weekend round of matches.

Jaguars stunned both former champions Nairobi Simba and Parklands 2-1 and 3-2 respectively at the City Park Stadium, Nairobi to move top with nine points from a clean run in three outings.

Jaguars had launched their campaign strong on March 30, shocking former champions Strathmore University Gladiators 2-0.

On Saturday, Allan Odongo scored in each half in the third and 37th minutes, while Robinson Omutekete added the other goal in 11th minute to spur Jaguars to victory against Parklands.

It’s Allan Malit who had pulled one for Parklands from the spot in the 11th minutes, a minute after Omutekete had given Jaguars a 2-0 lead.

Malit would have completed his brace for Parklands in the 49th minute, but all was in vain since Jaguars, who had gone ahead 3-1 with Odongo’s goal in the 37th minute, defended well to carry the day.

Omutekete was the hero against Nairobi Simba when he equalised for Jaguars in the 45th minute, before handing them the winner three minute later.

Shabaz Shag had given Simba the lead in the fourth minute, before Omutekete’s silencing double.

“It’s simply a perfect start for our young team,” said one of Jaguars deputy coach Peter Okova, adding that the exposure several young players, who played for the Kenya team at Africa Youth and Olympic Youth Olympics is paying off for them.

“Let champions Butali and Police know that we are coming for them…nothing scares us,” said Okova.

Wazalendo, who had taken the league’s early lead the previous weekend when they handed Nairobi Simba a 1-0 defeat, drops to second with six points from two wins.

Champions Butali Sugar Warriors are third with three points from one win and are followed by Untied States International University with three points from two losses and a win.

In the women’s Premier League, Amira Sailors moved to the second place in the league with four points after they railed from behind to beat Kenyatta University 2-1.

Melody Nyagaka gave the varsity students the lead in the 10th minute, before Pauline Naise level for Sailors in 25th minute before Sarah Bonareri’s winner in the 43rd minute.

Defending champions Telkom top with four points from one win and a draw, just like Sailors, while Strathmore University Scorpions are third with three points from one win.

Daily Nation

Former Olympians call for change in PHF



LAHORE-A number of former Pakistan hockey captains, Olympians and international players Monday called for immediate change in the present setup of Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) to lift the national sport out of gloom.

In what turned out to be country hockey history’s first ever assembling of that large number of stalwarts of the game at one platform appeared a collective effort to safeguard future of the game in which Pakistan has lost its repute and supremacy as a top notch hockey country.

Four former hockey captains Dr Tariq Aziz, Manzoor Junior, Hanif Khan and Kh Mohammad Junaid and Olympians including former PHF Secretary Col (r) Mudassar Asghar, Rao Salim Nazim, Naveed Alam, Khalid Bashir, M Saqlain and former international Haider Rasool and president Sindh Hockey Association Dr Junaid Ali Shah participated in a ‘hockey forum’ here at Lahore Press Club and requested Prime Minister Imran Khan, who is patron-in-chief of PHF, to remove the present officials of the PHF in the larger interest of the game.

It is interesting that many of these ex-Olympians have remained part of the PHF in the past but hockey’s fortune never changed. Even some of these players also remained part of the current PHF set up before they were shown doors.

Speaking on the occasion, they pointed out deep rooted corruption, non-professional approach, unconstitutional acts and wrong polices of the present regime reasons behind hockey’s downfall.

They alleged that Rs 100 million grant, which was given time-to-time to the PHF by the government in recent years, was hugely misappropriated and was spent on non-hockey activities and the game was badly suffered and now its future hangs in balance.

“Pakistan hockey team, which once was force to reckon with at the highest level of the game by possessing the entire major hockey titles, is now a place shadow of its glittering past which is evident from its low world’s number 14 ranking,” they said.

They said the PHF funds were spent on joyrides and on the pretext of holding of hockey camps, which failed to serve any purpose as no junior or U16, U18, U20 teams were formed so much so no sincere effort, was made to groom the national senior team which showed dismal performance in all the international events it participated in recent years.

They called for conducting a special audit in the PHF to determine the facts how the funds were spent and despite receiving handsome grant in recent years why the game had a nose dive trend. “The PM himself is a sportsman and we appeal to him to look into the present hockey crisis and to appoint right people for the right job,” they said in a joint resolution at the forum.  The former captains, Olympians and internationals said those, who destroyed the national game, be held responsible and bring to justice. At the end of the forum, a large number of hockey children holding placards and banners staged a peaceful assembly in the premises of the Lahore Press Club.

The Nation