Shahbaz named advisor to PHF president

ISLAMABAD: Shahbaz Ahmed Senior, the only Hilal-e-Imtiaz recipient in the game of hockey, has been appointed advisor to Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) president Brig (Retd) Khalid Khokhar.
‘The News’ has learnt that the decision regarding appointment of Shahbaz was the first by the newly-elected president.
“Shahbaz has been appointed as the advisor to the PHF president with immediate effect,” a source said.
“He is the most celebrated and cherished name in hockey, nationally and internationally. Since Shahbaz is working with the PIA, his services have been acquired from the national airline,” he said.
Rana Mujahid would continue to work as secretary of the PHF, the source said.
Shahbaz would advise the PHF president on appointment of the selection committee as well as the management of junior and senior teams.
“With the help of sitting secretary, Shahbaz will guide and help the PHF president decide on important matters,” the source added.
Since Shahbaz has vast experience of marketing and finance, he would guide PHF on business front too, the source said.
Shahbaz led Pakistan to victories in 1993 Champions Trophy and 1994 World Cup. These were the last two major titles Pakistan won.
Shahbaz also played league hockey in Europe for a long time. “His services will also be acquired for bringing international hockey back to the country. Since he has played in Dutch and German leagues for well over a decade, his relations will help lure international outfits to Pakistan,” the source said.
When contacted, Shahbaz said he would do his best to help hockey “stand on its feet. I hope that the trust reposed by the PM in Khokhar’s abilities will bring revolutionary change in the PHF.”