PHL gets Pak players’ thumbs up

The PHL has been a subject of discussion among experts, players and fans alike. Many of them feel the novel concept has been a good start an...

The PHL has been a subject of discussion among experts, players and fans alike. Many of them feel the novel concept has been a good start and could really prove fruitful in reviving the national game in the country. Pakistan players, who have come to play in the second edition at Chandigarh, also aired their views on the unique tournament.

Here is a cross-section of their opinions:

Mohammed Saqlain (Pak captain, Sher-e-Jalandhar): “I always wanted to play along with crafty Indian forwards, who never cease to surprise with their stick-work. When I got the offer to play last time, I just grabbed it with both hands. This is a good experiment, I am sure it will bear fruit in the long run. Even the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) followed suit and conducted the SHL.

Rehan Butt (Bangalore Lions): “Each passing year you will see some changes. There may be more players, more money and more teams. Perhaps our leagues will also be as well contested and organised as in Holland and Germany.”

Story continues below this ad

Imran Warsi (Maratha Warriors): “Hockey in Asia is not as strong as it was. But with PHL and SHL, we too can have good domestic base for players.”

Salman Akbar (Hyderabad Sultans): “League hockey will surely yield results in the future. It will help in rebuilding the base of hockey in India and Pakistan. More youngsters will take to the sport if leagues are promoted properly.”