Comeback hinges on IHF, says Rasquinha

Mumbai, Feb 22 (UNI) Heart-broken after his controversial ommission from the Doha Asian Games, star mid-fielder Viren Rasquinha today said the bitterness of the shocking exclusion had now subsided and he was hoping to get the backing of the Indian Hockey Federation (IHF) for a national comeback.

Rasquinha, who is currently busy captaining the Maratha Warriors in the Premier Hockey League, was speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the launch function of the Corporate Olympics.

The veteran, who was deeply hurt at his unexpected axing from the squad, said he was now focussing on leading Maratha Warriors to the podium finish in the ongoing Premier Hockey League in Chandigarh.

''We are doing well this year after finishing at the bottom last year. We are currently in third position with two matches in hand and are hopeful of a good finish,'' hesaid.

Asked about the chances of the country qualifying for the Beijing Olympics next year, Rasquinha said though it was a difficult task, it was not an impossible one.

''We need proper planning and have continuity in team selections for us to be able to qualify for the Beijing Olympics,'' he added.

UNI