(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Pakistan Hockey Coach Calls for Foreign Experts to Boost Team Performance
Pakistan men’s hockey head coach, Tahir Zaman, has highlighted the urgent need for foreign coaches to help the national team prepare for upcoming international challenges.
Speaking on the team’s requirements, Zaman emphasized that Pakistan needs overseas specialists, particularly in strength and conditioning as well as goalkeeping — two areas he believes could significantly improve overall performance.
“These are the departments where we must improve quickly. Foreign coaches bring modern knowledge and advanced methods, and we want the best experts available,” Zaman stated.
Over the years, Pakistan hockey has worked with several international coaches, including Hans Jorritsma, Roelant Oltmans, Michel van den Heuvel, and most recently Siegfried Aikman. Specialists like Richard Snitcher (penalty corners), Bob Johan Veldhof (goalkeeping), and Daniel Berry (fitness) have also served the team in the past.
However, financial limitations within the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) may prevent Zaman’s wish from becoming reality. Reports suggest the federation is already struggling to pay players, making it difficult to afford high-profile foreign coaches who usually demand hefty fees.
Despite the challenges, Zaman remains hopeful that with the right support, Pakistan can still compete strongly in the upcoming FIH Pro League.
