LAHORE, July 23: Hockey trials to select team for four-nation tournament in Beijing will be held in Islamabad on July 28. The trials, to be watched by national selection committee, will be participated by 30 probables. Olympic champions, Australia, Pakistan, Malaysia and hosts China will take part in the event which will be held from Aug 8 to 13.

The penalty corner striker Imran Warsi will not take part in the trials as he has been advised two-month rest due to a shoulder injury.

“For us it is a very important assignment because the results will reveal how much progress we have made in building our team for the Champions Trophy and next year's Olympics,” said team manager Islahuddin Siddiqui.

Islah said players should improve physical fitness and defence, while forward-line should be more effective.

“I cannot make tall claims about Beijing tournament because we are still trying out new combinations.

However, this does not mean that we have given up hope. Certainly, we are going to China with a target to improve and to ensure that we stand among top teams,” said the manager.—APP