MSC ready to defend title

Defending champions Mohammedan SC finally wrapped up their players' registration formalities by signing a group of national players on the penultimate day of the five-day transfer window of the Dhaka Premier Hockey League at the Maulana Bhasani Hockey Stadium yesterday.

Penalty-corner specialist Ashraful Islam, experienced forward Rasel Mahmud Jimmy, midfielder Sarwar Hossain, Mainul Islam Koushik, Ashim Ghope, promising prospects Sarwar Murshed Shawon, Prince Lal Samanta, Taher Ali, Ajit Kumar Gosh and Razib Das were among the remarkable signings after the Black and Whites arrived to drums beats and chanting from a few hundred supporters.  

"Our squad will fight to defend the title. After retaining the service of senior players, we also roped in some new ones, who will give their best on the turf, we believe," said Mohammedan coach Moududur Rahman Shuvo.

"We've signed better players compared to last season. With players for every position, the squad is balanced and the inclusion of foreign players will only strengthen us," Shubho added.

Manager Ariful Haque Prince informed that they would bring three Indian players who were part of Mohammedan during last season and they are also in communication with players from Malaysia, Pakistan and some European countries.

Experienced campaigner Rasel Mahmud Jimmy is pleased with the local collections but urges the players to deliver their top performance to defend the league title. "This squad is even more balanced than the one that emerged champions three years ago. It's our responsibility now to make Mohammedan champions again," said the national forward.