PHF to investigate reasons for Asia Cup disaster

Lahore, Sep 19 (UNI) After crying hoarse over 'sub-standard' umpiring in the Asia Cup in Chennai, Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) is to look inward to find answers for their dismal show in the tournament.

PHF Secretary Khalid Mehmood said he was not in a position to comment on the issue but the federation would find out the reasons for the disappointing show by the Pakistani players.

''Team manager Islahuddin Sidddiqi is expected to submit his tour report in a couple of days that would help us to ascertain the cause of the defeat,'' Kahlid told 'The Post'.

Pakistan failed to qualify for the semi-finals after suffering defeat at the hands of Japan and drawing with Malaysia in the group stage though they beat Singapore and Hong Kong.

When asked about Pakistan's participation in the Champions Trophy, Khalid said the tournament has been shifted from Lahore due to reasons beyond the control of the PHF but he confirmed that Pakistan team would play in the tournament.

The Champions Trophy was originally scheduled to be held in Lahore in Decemeber but refusal by Australia to take part on security grounds, followed by concern shown by other teams, including Korea, had forced the International Hockey Federation (FIH) to shift the event to some other venue.

FIH is yet to decide the new venue but India and Malaysia are reportedly in contention to host the tournament.

UNI