KARACHI, Nov 14: Pakistani hockey icon Shahbaz Ahmed Wednesday said he was satisfied with his country’s fourth finish in the recently concluded Champions Trophy in Holland.

“I am satisfied with its fourth position. With some extra effort we could spring a surprise at the World Cup in three months,” Ahmed told SADA.

“It is my aim that the Pakistan team should surprise everyone at the World Cup next February. I will do my best to achieve this aim,” he vowed.

“Considering Pakistan’s performance in the first two games and in the match against Germany, I would say that we were unlucky not to qualify for the final,” said Ahmed, who recently staged his third comeback in international hockey.

Shahbaz agreed that Germany deserved to win the title. “Germany’s overall game was the best and they deserved to win.”

Ahmed praised goalkeeper Qasim’s performance.

“Qasim played very well and deservedly won the best goalkeeper’s award.

Before the tournament we were worried about his performance but he did brilliantly.”

About his own comeback Ahmed said he had improved gradually. Shahbaz said he would have wanted a few players of his choice for better team cohesion.

“I will suggest some names to the Pakistan Hockey Federation. My objective is only to help the team and nothing else,” he said.

“Unfortunately I have been turned into a controversial entity by some people. I can’t do what I want to for the betterment of the team.” —SADA