Shahbaz recalled

KARACHI, February 18: After more than a year, centre-forward Shahbaz Ahmed staged a comeback into the Pakistan team. The 32-year-old former captain, who last played for Pakistan in the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, was named in an 18-member squad for the coming hockey series against India.

He had left the team after differences with the Pakistan Hockey Federation PHF over how the team should be run. The two Asian rivals will play eight-matches, four each in India and Pakistan. The series in Pakistan is to start on February 28.

Known for magical stickwork, Shahbaz led Pakistan to victory in the 1994 World Cup in Australia and Champions8217; Trophy at Lahore the same year. But along with several other teammates he led a revolt against the authorities before the 1996 Atlanta Olympics over the selection process and demands relating to player8217; daily allowances and other facilities.