Bhutta to lead hockey team as PHF announces squad for Azlan Shah Cup

LAHORE: Umar Bhutta has been named as captain of the national hockey team as the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) on Monday announced a 17-member squad along with six stand-by players for the Sultan Azlan Hockey Cup in Malaysia.

Pakistan are set to participate in the tournament, scheduled from November 1 to 10,  for the first time after 9 years hiatus.

According to PHF, Bhutta-led national squad also comprised Abdullah Ishtiaq (Goalkeeper), Akmal Hussain (Goalkeeper), M. Abdullah, Sufyan, Arbaaz Ahmed, Aqeel, Ehtsham, Murtaza Yaqub, Rana Abdul Waheed, Rooman Khan, Hanan Shahid, Junaid Manzoor, Arshad Liaquat, Afraz, Shahzaib Khan, Usama Bashir, Mohammad Imran.

Meanwhile, Waqar, Abdullah Sheikh, Abuzar, M. Imad, Abdul Wahab and Saad Shafiq have been included in the stand-by players’ list.

It is pertinent that six teams will feature in the event including the hosts Malaysia, Pakistan, Japan, Korea, South Africa and Egypt.

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