KARACHI, Sept 6: Indian captain Dilip Tirkey said on Tuesday that induction of more Asian and European players would have made inaugural Super Hockey League (SHL) more competitive and tough for players.

“It would have been better, had some players from Korea, China, Malaysia and a few players from Europe could have been inducted in the SHL,” Dilip Tirkey said at a reception hosted in honour of Shan-e-Punjab team.

He said Spanish players featured in the Premier Hockey League launched in India earlier this year.

“Launching of the event will be very benefitting for players for both Pakistan and India. It will definitely help in raising the standard of the sport,” he said.

Pakistan Hockey Federation at the launch of the SHL had said that they would consider inviting European players next year.

“It will be vital if good number of spectators are attracted to SHL because it will inspire the players to do well,” he said.

Tirkey, who will be representing Sindh Qalandars in the championship, said the event would also benefit players financially.

He said it would be great and different kind of experience to play in SHL in Pakistan as compared to visit with Indian team. “We are delighted to be in Pakistan and play before local crowd.”—Agencies