Salvation of Pak hockey only through league: Bhandara

LAHORE: Mian Shahid Pervaiz Bhandara, advisor to President Pakistan Hockey Federation, believes that the only solution of salvation for the national sport is the organisation of hockey league.Talking to media, he said organising the Hockey League is very important to get rid of downfall of hockey.

“League hockey has improved sports throughout the world and let's takes the example of India that there has been a lot of improvement in hockey there. Notable players will come to Pakistan to play in league hockey. By holding league will also increase domestic business, he added.

In response to a question, he said that Pakistan Hockey Federation is serious about getting a league by September this year. He said that if there is a hockey league, players from far-flung areas will have an opportunity to showcase their abilities and every international player should play a role in its organisation.

Bhandara, who is associated with the international and Asian hockey federations, said: “The successful conduct of the league will contribute in finding, training and grooming the promising talent and also help and motivate the youngsters to come forward and serve the country through national game. If they succeeded in impressing the national selectors, they will also get place in the national team and represent the country at international level and win glories for it globally.”

The advisor to PHF chief said: “Pakistan, which once ruled the hockey world for many decades, has been declining with each passing day due to non-cooperation of government and corporate sector. It badly needs funds as investment on the national game can attract the youth towards it. The more youth will play hockey, the better results we will produce at international level. It is my request to government as well as sponsors to come forward and help the national game, which in return, will laurels for the country,” he added.