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| August 13, 2006 | Sunday | Rajab 17, 1427 |
Foreign coach no threat to selection committee, says PHF secretary
LAHORE, Aug 12: The national selection committee will continue to perform with all existing powers even if Pakistan hired the services of a foreign coach, said Pakistan Hockey Federation secretary Akhtar-ul-Islam on Saturday.
"We are considering a proposal to hire the services of a foreign coach after the World Cup but the selection committee will work in its due capacity even in the presence of the foreign official,” the secretary said.
Three years ago, Pakistan hired the services of Roelant Oltmans, a Dutch coach who served the team till the end of Olympics 2004. Oltmans, however, had constant problems with then national selection committee, headed by chief selector Akhtar Rasool.
"We are well aware of the unfortunate episode between Oltmans and Akhtar Rasool and the PHF will take this matter into consideration at the time of signing the contract with a foreign coach," he said.
Asked about the possibility of a longer term for current coach Shahnaz Sheikh if Pakistan returned successful in the forthcoming World Cup, the secretary said the PHF would definitely request him to continue but the former Olympian had only committed to perform his duties for the Four-nation Hamburg Masters and the World Cup.
"Shahnaz is employed with PIA and is keen to continue with them for a better career. He has accepted the coaching assignment for just 45 days," the secretary clarified.
Akhtar also hinted at change in captaincy but said any decision in this regard will be made on Aug 19. He, however, ruled out any consultations with senior players prior to the captain’s appoinment.
"There is no need to consult any player for the appointment of new captain. The PHF will consider all aspects before making a decision on captaincy," he said.
The secretary disclosed that PHF did not have sufficient funds with it at present but refused to give any figures.
He said the federation would benefit by staging the Champions Trophy 2007 on professional lines.
"By working on professional lines while hosting the next Champions Trophy, the PHF will be in a position to generate sufficient funds,” he said.
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