ADVERTISEMENTREMOVE AD

India Says Pak Hockey Coach Lying About Wanting to Play ACT Final

India and Pakistan both lifted the title but have been locked in a war of words over how the decision was reached.

Updated
Hockey
2 min read
story-hero-img
i
Aa
Aa
Small
Aa
Medium
Aa
Large
Hindi Female

They lifted the Asian Champions Trophy jointly but India and Pakistan have been locked in a war of words over how the decision was reached to abandon the final after a thunderstorm and heavy showers in Muscat.

The two teams jointly took the trophy on 28 October and on Wednesday, 31 October, Pakistan coach Hasan Sardar triggered a controversy by claiming that India backed out of the summit clash on a soggy pitch even though his side wanted to play.

A Hockey India official rejected the claim, calling it a "blatant lie" and said Pakistan were the ones in a hurry to leave owing to an early morning return flight.

Our boys were pumped up for the final match. Even after the heavy rains we told the organisers we will play if they wanted the final to go ahead. But the Indians refused because of the conditions
Hasan Sardar, Pakistan Hockey Team Coach

Hockey India rubbished the assertion.

ADVERTISEMENTREMOVE AD

"It's a blatant lie. It was Pakistan who didn't want to play as they had a return flight at 3am in the morning. Our flight was next day so we had no problem in waiting," the HI official told PTI on condition of anonymity.

"By the time rain stopped, it was already 10.30 pm local time and if match was to start, it would have taken at least two more hours to prepare the pitch. The pitch was completely flooded, even the Tournament Director, broadcasters and commentators rooms were flooded," he added.

Addressing other issues, Sardar also requested the government to release much-needed funds for the hockey team.

"People need to understand the mental state of our players and officials at the moment. The players responded magnificently despite not getting their full daily allowances.

"There were problems with the hotel booking as well adding to the strain on us. But I say hats off to the PHF President, Brigadier (retd) Khalid Khokar who managed to arrange funds to pay off the hotel dues and give some peace of mind to the team," he said.

(At The Quint, we are answerable only to our audience. Play an active role in shaping our journalism by becoming a member. Because the truth is worth it.)

0

Read Latest News and Breaking News at The Quint, browse for more from sports and hockey

Published: 
Speaking truth to power requires allies like you.
Become a Member
3 months
12 months
12 months
Check Member Benefits
Read More
×
×