India, Pakistan players weak in hockey basics: Sardar

NEW DELHI: Think of the Indian hockey team's 7-1 drubbing at the hands of Pakistan in the Asian Games final here in 1982, and the images of Hassan Sardar's sizzling runs come back.

The ace Pakistani forward ran the Indian defence ragged, playing a pivotal role in his team's historic win in that final which still haunts the Indian team.

"That win is certainly the most memorable in my career," recalled Sardar, who now is the chairman of Pakistan hockey's selection committee.

"Both the teams were desperate to win the Asian Games final. There was a lot of pressure as the crowd was roaring, chanting. But once we absorbed the pressure, things became easier for us," Sardar told TOI from Karachi.

Commenting on India and Pakistan's chances in the World Cup opener, the former Pakistan captain said: "The first match is important for both of us. Whoever converts the opportunities into goals and hold the nerve will win. I think Pakistan can make it to the semi-final but India would need to put in extra effort to get through to the last four stage."

During his short span as a player (1979-87), Sardar was one of biggest stars of Pakistan hockey. "It was a hugely talented team. We dominated world hockey for long," he recalled.

But he rued the lack of quality in the current bunch of players on both sides of the border. "They don't know the basics, the ABC of hockey. I don't blame them. Actually, we need foreign coaches to train our own coaches so that they can take care of the grassroot programmes. In Pakistan, we have achieved some success after carrying out development programmes," he explained.

"Modern hockey has changed. It is a 100-yard game now. Those eye-catching skills are absent because there is no grass-root programmes both in India and Pakistan."

Sardar didn't hesitate in offering some suggestions for Indian hockey. "Engage former players. There are so much talent in India. Careful planning can change everything. But the problem is that we are not as organised as the Europeans. We should take their help."

Who are his favourites this time?

"Australia and Germany," replied Sardar.