Dubai: UAE hockey team captain Ahmad Al Sayegh is hoping to revive interest in the game. After a long period of inaction, UAE Emirates Hockey Club (UEHC) will embark on a tour of Thailand.
"We have decided to go on a seven-day tour and will play against the Thailand national hockey team, Thai Air Force team and a few first-class clubs," Al Sayegh said at Grosvenor House, where the team and officials had assembled ahead of their departure.
UEHC spokesperson Raza Abidi said the Thailand tour was just the beginning.
"The tour will strengthen hockey ties between the UAE and Thailand, leading to reciprocal tours and the promotion of the game in both countries," Abidi said.
The tour has the backing of International Hockey Federation Head Coach Tayyeb Ikram and Thailand Olympic coach Sameer Hussain. It is being sponsored by Mashreq Bank, First Gulf Bank and Royal Le Meridien.
Sayegh said the team is a strong one.
"Our team has the UAE's best forwards, such as Abdul Waheed [who also coaches the team], Ayaz Khan and Ashfaq. In defence we have Biju, Arshad Nazeer and Safdar Cheema."
Al Sayegh is confident that they can record a series win.
"We have prepared very well for the tour and it will be a great experience for the players. We will play in the spirit of the game."