New hockey rules favor India, Pakistan: Charlesworth
NEW DELHI: The International Hockey Federation has launched new format for international field hockey recently and the man behind the idea, Ric Charleworth believes that the new format predominantly favors Pakistan and India.
As per the new format, a fast-paced game is ensured as each side consists of nine players, instead of eleven, while substitutions will be unlimited and each half will long for 15 minutes. The goals will be a meter wider and in penalty shoot outs the striker will only have eight seconds to score.
Charlesworth said in a video message during the launch of the nine-a-side tournament Tuesday that the new format will translate into action with the Lanco International Super Series to be held in Perth Australia.
Charlesworth, who is coach of the Kookaburras hockey team, said that the new format is an absolute fitness test for the players and only the players in best shape would be able to perform well.
He believed Pakistan and India both stand a realistic chance for the title in the upcoming Lanco International Super Series.
“In my opinion, these rules are made for India and Pakistan. Most of us in Australia, love the way India and Pakistan traditionally play the game. We learnt most of our hockey from what we saw in the sub-continent,” Charlesworth said.
Apart from the arch-rivals India and Pakistan, the Lanco International Super Series will also feature teams from Australia (hosts), and New Zealand while the women’s tournament will have Australia, Malaysia, and India.
Ric Charlesworth
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