Tahir Zaman Appointed Head Coach of Pakistan Hockey Team Ahead of Asian Champions Trophy

Former Olympian Tahir Zaman has been named head coach of the Pakistan hockey team, replacing Roelant Oltmans. The appointment comes ahead of the Asian Champions Trophy in Hulunbuir, China, starting September 8. Zaman, who holds a coaching degree, previously coached Pakistan's junior team and was a key player in the 1992 Olympics.

In a significant move, former Olympian Tahir Zaman has been appointed as the new head coach of the Pakistan hockey team. This urgent appointment comes after Roelant Oltmans declined to continue on a short-term basis. Zaman joins the team ahead of the Asian Champions Trophy in Hulunbuir, China, starting September 8.

Oltmans, who had been leading the team for their last two international events, was expected to arrive in China but demanded a longer contract, prompting the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) to seek an immediate replacement.

"Tahir Zaman will now oversee technical aspects and team planning as head coach, while Zeeshan has been appointed as team manager for this tournament," stated a PHF official. Zaman, a notable player and coach, brings extensive experience and holds a master's degree in coaching from the International Hockey Federation (FIH).

He was part of Pakistan's bronze medal-winning team at the 1992 Olympics and secured prestigious titles like the World Cup and Champions Trophy in 1994. The PHF faced delays due to funding issues from the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB), but the team remains focused and united, preparing for tough matches including a showdown with arch-rivals India on September 14.

(With inputs from agencies.)