Penarth Hockey Club’s bid to join UK hockey’s National League will receive a boost this week, with the arrival of Pakistan international Mubashar Ali.
The club’s 1st XI currently sits fourth overall in the Verde Recreo Premiership, but hopes that the addition of the highly-rated 22-year old will help to propel it into contention for promotion over the remainder of the season.
Pakistan’s decision not to contest this year’s inaugural FIH Pro League opened the door for Penarth to entice Ali to South Wales, and the former junior international will bring a wealth of experience to bear on the second half of the Premiership campaign. Despite playing in defence, Ali’s 16 goals in 38 games have made him a vital part of Pakistan’s senior side, and his fearsome penalty corner drag flick should make him an equally-valued weapon for a Penarth side that has already enjoyed three promotions in as many seasons to reach the top flight of regional hockey.
A medal-winner in junior international competitions, Ali has also tasted success in the prestigious Sultan Johor Cup, and represented his country at the Men’s Hockey World Cup, Asian Champions Trophy, Men’s Champions Trophy, Commonwealth Games and Asian Games, scoring five goals in seven games at the latter tournament in Indonesia last year.
“Penarth Hockey Club’s ambition, record and playing style have helped to attract high-profile players in recent seasons, but nothing quite as big as this,” player-coach Ben Croxall admitted.
“Mubashar’s international experience will not only boost the squad, but his arrival should also provide us with another goal-scoring threat as we look to continue our climb up the Premiership standings and, hopefully, into contention for promotion at the end of the season.”
Ali is scheduled to make his Penarth debut in this week’s trip to second-placed Cheltenham (2,00pm start), as all five of the club’s senior teams return to action after last weekend’s weather-enforced hiatus.
The Seconds, Thirds and Fourths are all at home, taking on Stroud (1.45pm start), Whitchurch (3.30pm start) and Gwent (10.15am start) respectively, while the 5th XI takes to the road to play the other Gwent side in De Cymru 3 at Cwmbran Stadium (2.30pm start).
Penarth Hockey Club always welcomes new, old and returning players, umpires, supporters, friends and helpers regardless of age and ability. Training takes place at Stanwell on Wednesdays, with the juniors on the pitch between 6.15pm and 7.15pm and the seniors between 7.00pm and 8.15pm.
Anyone interested in joining the club at senior or youth level can contact club secretary Dave Stevens (d_stevens81@hotmail.co.uk) for further information.