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Thai ‘Wild Boars’ return to training after teammates’ rescue
MAE SAI, Thailand, July 13, 2018 (BSS/AFP) – At the first training session
since their teammates went missing in a Thai cave, the remaining “Wild Boars”
said they cannot wait to see their friends back on the pitch.
The stunning rescue of 12 boys and their coach earlier this week spurred
jubilation in Thailand and made the team famous worldwide.
Though the group are healthy and in good spirits, they remain in an
isolation ward waiting for the medical all-clear after more than two weeks
stuck deep underground in an environment where they could have been exposed
to nasty diseases.
Back in the boys’ hometown of Mae Sai their teammates had not practised
together since the group went missing, as the area’s residents kept an
anxious vigil around the cave’s entrance.
The remaining team members waited for news that the rescue had succeeded
before returning to training on Thursday evening, on a field where they are
eager to see their friends again soon.
“I want to tell the guys that I miss them and that I want to hug them,”
Wild Boars teammate Supaghid Pragaihong told AFP.
“I wish them a speedy recovery so we can play football together again.”
Wild Boars head coach Nopparat Khantavong said his remaining players were
in good spirits after returning to practice knowing their friends were safe.
Thai authorities are planning to set up a museum to the daring rescue
operation at the cave site and a Hollywood production house has announced
plans for a film version of the group’s ordeal.
BSS/AFP/MR/ 1217 hrs