21 July 2004	Wednesday	03 Jamadi-us-Saani 1425

KARACHI, July 20: Cracks in Pakistan hockey have started to appear barely three weeks ahead of the Athens Olympics as differences cropped on Tuesday between coach Roelant Oltmans and the selectors on finalizing the squad.

Although Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) president Gen Aziz Khan claimed the squad for the Games had been given the final shape after a "consensus" between Oltmans and the selectors, sources say the Dutchman was unhappy with a few decisions.

"The selection committee has a great role and the squad has been finalized after a consensus between the coach and selectors," PHF chief said when asked about the role of the selectors.

But chief selector Akhtar Rasool and members Saleem Nazim, Saeed Khan and Hassan Sardar never visited the training camp set up at the Hockey Club of Pakistan on July 16. Akhtar and Hassan were present during the evening session, while Saleem and Saeed did not come. However, Akhtar, Hassan, coach, PHF chief and secretary, had a marathon meeting after the session to "select" the squad.

Oltmans remained tight-lipped and even refused to talk to the media after the meeting despite repeated requests. "I do not want to talk on anything right now and you better ask the general about the selection or anything," seemingly irritated coach said before leaving for his hotel.

The Dutchman had recently indicated that although he hoped things would be settled in a cordial environment, he would not tolerate any interference in selection matters.

Earlier, Akhtar had categorically stated the final line-up would be announced in consultation with the selection committee which had disturbed Oltmans a lot. Although the PHF tried to paint a rosy picture, things are certainly boiling up as the top officials did not disclose the names of the two players who have been dropped from the final 16-member squad for the Games.

"We had a lot of discussions and PHF will announce the final squad through a press release tomorrow (Wednesday)," Gen Aziz said while choosing to keep the final line-up a well-guarded secret.