Aqil wants World XI hockey matches in Peshawar

ISLAMABAD: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Olympic Association President Syed Aqil Shah demanded due share for the province when it comes to organising hockey matches against the visiting teams.

Reacting against Pakistan Hockey Federation’s (PHF) plans to hold matches against World XI in Lahore, Karachi and Rawalpindi, he said it was unjust to single out Peshawar.

“We organised the international wrestling events involving Anoki in toughest times. We can easily host international hockey matches with the help of KPK Hockey Association. I don’t know why Peshawar and KPK has been singled out.”

Aqil also expressed his doubts over the PHF capacity to invite active hockey players. “Like cricket board, the PHF must come up with names of players first. It is useless to invite retired players and give them the name of World XI. The PHF must invite active players from best hockey playing nations.”

He said that eight best teams are gathering in India from December 1-10 to play the World Hockey League Finals. If the PHF officials have the required negotiation powers they can easily invite 15 best to play a few matches in Pakistan at the completion of League. I have my doubts over the required capacity of PHF.”

Aqil was also critical of PHF decision not to honour KPK Association teams in the Under-16 teams for the nationals.