Pakistan head coach Muhammad Saqlain on Wednesday admitted that India are forward of his aspect when it comes to preparations however promised to shock the hosts within the Asian Champions Trophy hockey match-up between the arch-rivals on August 9. “Definitely, preparation-wise India is ahead since it has been playing of late and is coming off a stint in Europe, whereas we have arrived right from our homes. It is the same even in cricket,” Saqlain mentioned throughout a media interplay. “We want to play more matches against India that would be beneficial for both sides. Obviously, India is at an advantage here in terms of fitness. But we also prepare in the same hot weather conditions, and we will surprise them when we meet.”
Pakistan haven’t performed any aggressive match this yr, having missed out on taking part within the FIH World Cup in India earlier this yr. However, Saqlain feels that they’ve had satisfactory preparations all these instances, particularly within the final three months.

“We have been preparing for the last three months, and we have focused on improving our structure. We play attacking hockey. Physically, we might be lagging, but we are number one in terms of attack.” While many groups have expressed their apprehensions concerning the scheduling of the ACT earlier than the all-important Olympic qualifier Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, subsequent month, Saqlain branded this event as a “full-dress rehearsal” of the continental multi-sport occasion.

“I believe it’s a full-dress rehearsal before the Asian Games. I credit FIH for having done so, as even if you make mistakes in this competition, you can immediately rectify them before a massive event like the Asian Games,” mentioned Saqlain.

The Pakistan group is presently ranked sixteenth however Saqlain believes that it’s in a gradual technique of enchancment and wishes time to turn into a serious powerhouse once more.

“Be it any sport, there is a steady process to make things better. You need to have a clear time frame for it. From my point of view, you need at least 18 months for a team to be competitive enough in Olympics or World Cup. And I hope Pakistan Hockey Federation supports us to the fullest,” he mentioned.

“We are already a champion (in the ACT). We have also won championships in the Olympics and the World Cup. Still, to date, Pakistan has an advantage over India in hockey and cricket (in winning more matches).

“As far as our low rating is worried, it’s primarily as a result of we didn’t take part within the Pro League. We are even able to outplaying Australia. We do possess the abilities, however it’s essential to make investments, particularly within the younger gamers.” Saqlain was also supportive of the new penalty corner rule, saying it puts Pakistan and India in an advantageous position.

“In the brand new penalty nook rule, Pakistan and India have a bonus in comparison with the Europeans for the reason that shot specialists and goalkeepers of the latter are bodily stronger than us. If the ball stops within the twenty third yard, there isn’t any variation. And we usually play effectively within the oblique gameplay.” Captain Umar Bhutta said while his players usually get to meet the Indians during such tournaments, social media has been a medium to connect with them.

“We haven’t usually performed collectively an excessive amount of. I final met a few of the Indian gamers throughout the Commonwealth Games and the final ACT. Also, with the social media being so vibrant, it isn’t tough to contact one another (the Indian gamers),” he said.

Speaking about his role in the side, Bhutta told PTI: “There is additional accountability as a skipper. Also, for the reason that group is sort of younger, I’ve to get the group collectively and inspire the gamers.

“So, hopefully, I can motivate them enough to perform to the fullest.” Asked if there was any additional stress on the aspect to qualify on to the 2024 Paris Olympics subsequent yr by successful gold within the Asian Games, he replied within the adverse.

“I don’t think so. If we don’t qualify for the World Cup, of course, it’s sad, since we lose out on playing matches, which in turn affects our rankings.

“All we want to consider is acting on a match-by-match foundation. If we will carry out, we qualify for the Olympics and taking part in the matches there would permit us to raised our rankings and enhance the standard of our hockey.

“Even India won an Olympic medal after 40 years. It’s a long process. So, hopefully, we can put on a good show here and in Asian Games, and fight for a medal in Paris next year,” he concluded.

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