Pakistan, India plan bilateral hockey series
Pakistan and Indian hockey federations are in contact to discuss modalities for arranging bilateral series in both countries this year and are trying to reach final agreement soon, officials said Monday.
Asif Bajwa, secretary of the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF), revealed that they were discussing the matter with their Indian counterparts since the resumption of better ties and especially after the meeting of both premiers on a cricket match late March.
“Our discussions with India got speed after Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani made a successful visit to India recently and both countries showed soft corners for the solution of pending issues,” Mr. Bajwa said.
On March 30, Mr. Gilani went to India, on the invitation of his Indian counterpart Dr. Manmohan Singh, to watch the most crucial cricket World Cup semi-final between Pakistan and India in Mohali, India.
Both Pakistan and India hockey teams have not played any home series against each other since November 2008 terror attack on Mumbai which left about 166 dead and also worsen the relations between the two nuclear-armed rival countries.
The PHF secretary, highlighting the benefits of hockey series for the regional peace and financial gains, said that the move would also strengthen the base of hockey and popularizing the game.
Mr. Bajwa said Pakistani team despite having a very busy international schedule this year will like to play against India in next six months.
Pakistani hockey players are also waiting for such series that always provided thrilling matches to the public.
“I wish to play in India and play in Pakistan against India this year as my international career is at the end almost,” ex-captain Waseem Ahmad said.