Pak hockey team now must work much harder for WC 2010: Former Olympians

ISLAMABAD : Former Olympians on Monday hailed the performance of Pakistan Hockey Team for qualifying World Cup 2010 in an amicable manner adding the victory will undoubtedly be a morale booster for the future of Pakistan.

Pakistan hockey team after defeating Japan 3-1 in the final of the Hockey World Cup qualifying Tournament in Lille, France on Sunday must now work very hard for WC 2010 said former Olympians here on Monday.

Olympian Salahuddin was of the view that it is an enriching sign that Pakistan qualified for WC adding Pakistan now must be mentally strong to counter big teams thus strategies and planning is required besides hard work and dignity.

Former Captain Olympian Shahbaz Senior said that it was a resounding win but now Pakistan have to be fully focused for the overwhelming challenge.

He further said that Pakistan requires 4 to 5 years for the restoration of hockey then Pakistan can beat any big team.

Danish Kaleem and Ahmed Alam also congratulated National Team for its victory against Japan.

Hockey has revive again while revolutionary changes are expected in future, they underlined.

The Pakistan Hockey Federation will have a sigh of relief as the team will now play in the main round of the Hockey World Cup to be held in India next year.Link....