Champions Trophy: Indian hockey team arrives in Lahore

LAHORE: The Indian hockey team have pinned their hopes for claiming the fourth position in the Champions Trophy hockey tournament commencing here from December 4 at National Hockey Stadium.

“If we finish fourth in this mega event it would be more than enough for us and if we improve it further it would be a bonus for us,” said Indian captain Dilip Tirkey on Thursday night after the arrival of 22-member squad at the Lahore Airport.

He said his side was upbeat to take part in the six-nation premier event as they did not qualify and entered the competition through stroke of luck after Australia pulled out due to security fears.

“We have a young side who lacks experience. Exposure and participation in Champions Trophy will add to their grooming in a big way and we are delighted to be here,” said the Indian captain Tirkey said hosts Pakistan and defending champions Holland were the two favourite teams for the title. He added it was a good omen that international had hockey returned to Pakistan and Champions Trophy was being played after a long gap. “The holding of the Champions Trophy will serve the cause of hockey in sub-continent and will benefit the region as far development of the game is concerned,” he said. The squad was received at the airport by the PHF reception committee including Shahid Pervez Bhandara and Khalid Rasool and a large number of fans. app

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