Saturday, October 29, 2016

SOJC: Pakistan finding their feet in Johor

The Sultan of Johor Cup (SOJC) has not been a glorious moment for Pakistan, but the thirst for success in the juniors category is something Tahir Zaman's men have.
   The Junior World Cup bound side will not, however, have things easy.
   In this edition as well as four of the other sides - Australia, New Zealand, Japan and England - are also bound for the world meet in Lucknow, India in December.
   Tournament records in Johor indicated Pakistan finished with the wooden spoon in the previous two editions. 
   Pakistan also finished last in the inaugural edition in 2011 and fourth in the following two years.
    Pakistan, who won the Junior World Cup in 1979 and were among the powerhouses in hockey, needs to establish themselves after several disappointing recent years.
   Pakistan have been drawn in Group B with Belgium, Netherlands and Egypt at the Junior World Cup. 
   Tahir Zaman surely realises the SOJC is a yardstick for participating teams and a good outing is needed.
Their ability to finish runners' in the Junior Asia Cup last year could make teams take note of their presence at the Taman Daya Stadium.