November 07, 2007	Wednesday	Shawwal 25, 1428

KARACHI, Nov 6: The Pakistan hockey team management suffered another blow when full-back Ihsanullah was ruled out of the upcoming Champions Trophy in Kuala Lumpur.

This was the second major blow to the team after Imran Warsi, who was also declared unfit for the elite event following his shoulder surgery.

Another two players — Zeeshan Ashraf and Rehan Butt — are resting because of hamstring injuries.

Pakistan’s manager-cum-chief coach Islahuddin said on Tuesday blood tests of forward Mohammad Amin, who was suffering from continuous fever, were carried out for fear of dengue and he was waiting for reports.

About Ihsan’s injury, the coach said: “Ihsan is suffering from cartilage problem in the left knee and has been advised four-week rest by the doctor.”

“We have sent him back home and asked him to report to the hockey federation when he regains complete fitness,” the coach added.

Meanwhile, half-back Ghazanfar Ali has recovered from hamstring problem and started training.

Olympian Sohail Abbas, who is a penalty-corner specialist, has yet not reported at the camp.—APP