Rehan Butt, the former star centre forward and current assistant coach of the Pakistan team, fondly recalls the days when facing India in their home turf felt like "playing a home game." With bilateral sporting ties between the two nations on hold due to cross-border tensions, Butt is excited that the current generation of players will get a chance to showcase their skills in Chennai at the upcoming Asian Champions Trophy.
"I have played all around the world, but there is no place that can match the fun and thrill of playing in India - it would feel as if we were playing in Pakistan. I have always received a lot of love here and made some friends," Butt, famous for his twin goals against India in the dying moments of Pakistan's Champions Trophy clash in 2002, shared in an exclusive interview.
Overwhelmed by the appreciation and warmth they received in India, Butt believes that the two countries should resume bilateral hockey ties as soon as possible. The much-anticipated match between India and Pakistan is scheduled for August 9, and the tickets have already been sold out.
"There is a lot of following for this game, and it is time the bilateral hockey relations resumed between the two nations. From sponsors to broadcasters to players, everyone will benefit from it," said Butt, who represented Pakistan in 274 international matches.
Pakistan has sent a young side for the Asian Champions Trophy, focusing on preparing for the Asian Games in September. "Since we have a young side facing world No. 4 India, pressure will, of course, be on the players," Butt acknowledged. However, even the hosts cannot escape the pressure associated with a match against Pakistan.
While both teams will feel the heat, Butt backed India to be a strong medal contender in the Paris Olympics next year. "India is No. 4 in the world. If they continue to play similarly, they will be strong contenders for a medal in the Paris Olympics. India should not face any difficulty making it to the final of ACT on August 12. We would also want to gift the fans a title clash between India and Pakistan," Butt concluded, looking forward to an exciting and competitive tournament.