KARACHI: Legendary hockey player Samiullah has urged Prime Minister Imran Khan to consult renowned sportspersons to chalk out a workable strategy for the betterment of sports in Pakistan.

Talking to this correspondent, the former great said that since the premier is a former sportsman therefore expectations are higher from him.

“Countries invest millions of dollars for one Olympic medal. Pakistan has talent in various sports but direction and support is missing. The prime minister should invite five-six prominent former players from various sports to draft a comprehensive way forward,” Samiullah said.

“I have given suggestions in writing but haven’t heard from the authorities as yet.”

Samiullah was of the opinion that closing down departments was not a solution in a country like Pakistan were meeting ends is not easy.

He lauded the grant provided to the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) by the Army chief but added a strict check on spending needed to be maintained.

“PHF got huge sum of money in past years from the government and other quarters but it was not spent. Therefore a thorough check spending is very important”, Samiullah said.

He said that he would work for the betterment of hockey voluntarily but only when he finds the environment conducive.

Published in Dawn, September 7th, 2020