Bangladesh begins training on Monday for a three-match playoff against Pakistan, which will determine participation in the World Cup qualifier. The Bangladesh Hockey Federation is pursuing Dutch coach Siegfried Aikman, who currently oversees the under-21 squad, to assist the senior team. General Secretary Riazul Hasan stated the federation will request Aikman's involvement with the national side despite his existing contract.
The International Hockey Federation arranged the playoff after Pakistan withdrew from the Asia Cup in India. Bangladesh will host matches on Nov. 13, 14, and 16 at Maulana Bhashani National Hockey Stadium in Dhaka under Asian Hockey Federation regulations, and Pakistan arrives on Nov. 10. Eight players belong to both the under-21 and senior rosters ahead of the under-21 World Cup beginning on Nov. 28 in Tamil Nadu, but Hasan said the Pakistan series will provide valuable experience for younger athletes.
The International Hockey Federation arranged the playoff after Pakistan withdrew from the Asia Cup in India. Bangladesh will host matches on Nov. 13, 14, and 16 at Maulana Bhashani National Hockey Stadium in Dhaka under Asian Hockey Federation regulations, and Pakistan arrives on Nov. 10. Eight players belong to both the under-21 and senior rosters ahead of the under-21 World Cup beginning on Nov. 28 in Tamil Nadu, but Hasan said the Pakistan series will provide valuable experience for younger athletes.
