ISLAMABAD Pakistan hockey team captain Zeeshan Ashraf is confident that his side will be able to qualify for the 2010 World Cup.

Talking to Dawn, the 32-year old fullback said 'The team's performance at the Asia Cup has brightened our chances to clear the World Cup 2010 qualifying round despite tough matches.'

South Korea clinched an automatic berth to the 2010 World Cup that is to be played in New Delhi after they defeated Pakistan 1-0 in the recently-concluded Asia Cup.

The fours teams which featured in the Asia Cup including Pakistan will now play the qualifying tournaments, tentatively set to be held in November at three venues - Lille (France), Auckland (New Zealand) and Dubai (UAE).

'We had a bit of bad luck in the Asia Cup but we are back in action and our ranking has also improved,' he said.

'We have started preparations for the qualifying round and intend giving a tough time to other competing teams,' the Olympian said.

Pakistan has climbed two points on the International Hockey Federation (FIH) ranking table after displaying good performance at the Asia Cup and is now ranked at No 6 in the world.

'The senior players are back in the team and are putting on a good show along with the young players,' he said.

'The upcoming international fixtures will witness a fine combination of energy and experience,' said Zeeshan, a veteran of 295 international matches.

He asserted 'There is complete unity and understanding among the boys. The PHF has also hired a Dutch physical trainer and the players are undergoing good strenuous physical training.'

When asked about their strategy to clear the World Cup qualifying round, Zeeshan said 'PHF should also arrange matches with a few European teams such as Spain, Holland and Germany.'