Unhelpful match schedule in Australia

It seems that not much thought has gone into the making of the match schedule in the run up (pre-ISS) to the Lanco International Super Series and the ones that will follow it.

It is certain here almost all energies are focussed on the Lanco event. Though it is exciting times for Hockey India to see off one of its brainwave will be on air, with first time telecast and all, the teams’ schedule here makes one wonder whether it is journalistically possible to cover intended nation’s matches.

First, some matches as scheduled did not happen. For instance, Malaysian women did not turn up even today, they were supposed to play against Australian junior team on 15th at Rockingham. It had to be cancelled.

Then there is another jarry note. Pakistan will not play New Zealand tomorrow at Rockingham, official communication is yet to come though.

Then comes the souring point for the sole visiting journalist like this writer.

See the schedule for Monday. Australain women will engage India at 7 PM in Mandurah. At the same time Australian A will play Indian men, but at Rockingham. Both Mundrah and Rockingham are apart 50 kms. How can one follow both the games which take place simulataneouly at different venues?

Quite likely the authorities haven’t anticipated hardened fans or journalist would like to follow one country. Now it is impossible to watch Indian men and women matches on Monday. This is where hockey as a whole suffer.

A bit of imagination or effort is lacking to look at international events from all angles.