Pakistan hockey coach Akhtar Rasool today created a big controversy when he kicked out experienced forward Shakeel Abbasi from the national training camp for fasting.
The development is likely to ignite discussion on whether sportsmen should fast during matches or training camps.
Rasool said he had taken disciplinary action against Abbasi for violating instructions and policy.
"It was decided very clearly before the camp began that no player will fast because during fasting it is not possible to focus on your training and drills," Rasool said.
"If Abbasi wants to fast he should do it at home. This is a national camp and all players are required to focus on their training. The forthcoming Asia Cup is a do or die situation for us if we don't win it we can qualify for the World Cup," he said.
Abbasi confirmed he had defied the orders of the chief coach but insisted that he could focus on his training even when he is keeping a fast.
"I believe I can do both things and I believe keeping fast or not should be an individual's personal decision," he added.
