HOCKEY lovers in Pakistan were saddened to the core after watching the dismal performance of the team against India, England and, finally, South Africa.

While umpteenth reasons can be given by those who manage hockey affairs, the fact of the matter is that our performance was not comparable to the teams that defeated us. It will require solid hard work to improve the performance before any mega event.

Amongst the missing elements in the domain of hockey, the commentary was a prominent mention. Despite the advancements in technology of communication and telecast, watching a match on television is not comparable to the joyful experience of yesteryear.

The charged voice of Farooq Mazhar would mesmerise the viewers with the drama in the field. With his caustic comments and fluent follow-ups on the game to the most sensational moment, he would keep the lovers of the game glued to their TV sets. When on radio, Farooq sketched the match to the minutest of details to his audience.

Media houses in Pakistan can contemplate reviving the near moribund hockey commentary.

DR NOMAN AHMED
Karachi