SPORTS

LAHORE: Pakistan hockey team has left for New Delhi through Wagah border, to participate in the 12th event of the World Cup Hockey Tournament, starting from February 28 and will last till March 13, Geo news reported.

The national hockey team, led by captain Zeeshan Ashraf, comprised of 18 players while Shahid Ali Khan is the coach of national team.

Pakistan is scheduled to play its first match against archrivals India on February 28 while second, third and fourth league matches to be played with Spain, South Africa and Australia on March 2, 6 and 8 respectively.

Earlier, before departure, Zeeshan Ashraf told Geo news that he wanted to kick off mega event with the victory over India.

Senior players Rehan Butt and Sohail Abbas told Geo news they were hopeful of putting up good show even though their group seems tough in the tournament.

Coach Shahid Ali Khan said players have worked industriously in the tough training camp and tried their level’s best to get rid of weaknesses.

Secretary Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) Asif Bajwah said the national hockey team will try showing better performance in mega event, adding that the security concerns over playing in India have been eradicated.