Hussain 
On Monday, the Pakistan hockey squad crossed the Wagah border to participate in the Asian Champions Trophy in Chennai, India, starting on Aug. 3. Before their departure, the team had its final practice session at the National Hockey Stadium, but the afternoon session was canceled due to a delay.
Head coach Shahnaz Sheikh was unable to join the contingent as he was still waiting for his Indian visa.
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The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) appointed him as the team’s consultant, but his visa application as the head coach was pending.
Players in Hockey Squad
Despite a young squad with Umar Bhutta as the only experienced player, the team is optimistic about performing well in the tournament.
Pakistan’s coach, Mohammad Saqlain, expressed confidence in the team’s potential and passion, aiming to reach the final.
Pakistan will face tough competition from experienced opponents like Malaysia and hosts India, who have undergone preparatory tours in Europe and Spain, respectively. Nevertheless, Saqlain emphasized that the team has trained well and is in good physical condition.
Captain Umar Bhutta believes in the team’s energetic spirit and aims to improve their rankings in the International Hockey Federation. The tournament will also serve as preparation for the upcoming Asian Games.
The Pakistan squad consists of players like Umar Bhutta, Rana Abdul Waheed Ashraf, Akmal Hussain, Abdullah Ishtiaq Khan, and others.
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Their schedule includes matches against Malaysia, Korea, Japan, China, and India on various dates in August.
