Pakistan’s penalty corner specialist Sohail Abbas to coach Malaysian team

Pakistan’s legendary penalty corner specialist, Sohail Abbas, has signed a one-year contract with the Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC) to enhance the drag-flicking skills of their players.

Sohail, who has kept a low profile in Pakistan's hockey scene and avoided coaching roles with the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF), recently signed the contract in Kuala Lumpur.

Despite his reluctance to engage with the PHF or many of his fellow Olympians, his reputation remains intact as Pakistan’s highest international goal-scorer, with an impressive 348 goals in 311 matches.

In his new role with MHC, Sohail will collaborate with Malaysia’s head coach, Surjit Singh, focusing on improving the team’s penalty corner conversion rates.

His expertise in drag-flicking is expected to significantly bolster Malaysia’s set-piece performance.

PHF had previously attempted to recruit Sohail for coaching positions at least twice, but he declined their offers on both occasions.

A few years ago, he even canceled a meeting with PHF Secretary Asif Bajwa when he learned it would involve discussions about his involvement in the national team’s coaching setup.

Sohail, nephew of Pakistan hockey Olympian Safdar Abbas, last appeared in the 2000 Sydney Olympics, where Pakistan’s campaign ended in the semifinals.

Despite his distance from domestic hockey circles, his contributions to the international game continue to be celebrated, and his new role with MHC highlights his lasting influence in the sport.