Sardar said players like Zeeshan Ashraf, Rehan Butt, Salman Akbar, Sohail Abbas and Waseem Ahmed had done well with Asian Games gold after the debacle in the World Cup but due to the changing demands of the game, new talent was needed. -Photo by AFP

KARACHI: Former chief selector and Olympian Hassan Sardar believes that Pakistan's senior hockey players should retire honorably in wake of their glory at the 16th Asian Games.

“It’s is time for senior players to make way for the talented youngsters so that Pakistan can field a good team for London Olympics 2012,” Sardar told APP in an interview on Tuesday.

He said players like Zeeshan Ashraf, Rehan Butt, Salman Akbar, Sohail Abbas and Waseem Ahmed had done well with Asian Games gold after debacle in the World Cup but due to the changing demands of the game, new talent was needed.

“This is the best time for them to quit on a high note after triumph at the Games. This will be in the interest of Pakistan hockey and their own careers,” the legendary centre forward of yesteryears and member of Pakistan's gold medal winning team at the 1984 Los Angles Olympics said.

“Pakistan needs fresh legs and more energy in the team for London Olympics,” he said.

Sardar said the bold decision of the players will benefit Pakistan hockey in the long run.