Tight security for hockey World Cup

New Delhi: Even as the Delhi police allayed security concerns over the Commonwealth Games on Monday, sources confirm that very strong security measures have been put into place for the upcoming hockey World Cup, which will act as a dry run for the October games.

Delhi police commissioner YS Dadhwal said adequate security measures have been put in place for the World Cup, which will start on February 28. “All arrangements have been made. We see no threat,” Dadhwal told reporters here on the sidelines of a function.

According to sources, armed escorts will be travelling with players of all 12 countries participating in the World Cup. The maximum security will be given to Pakistan and Australia. “The players will be given armed escorts every time they travel to the Dhyan Chand Stadium and back. Australia will get maximum security because of the recent attacks on Indian students in Australia. Pakistan will get adequate security as always,” said a senior police official.

Delhi police spokesman Rajan Bhagat said: “We are taking the World Cup as a dry run for the Commonwealth Games. It will be a full-fledged rehearsal.”

Trophy unveiled

The trophy for the upcoming hockey World Cup was unveiled on Tuesday. Designed by Bashir Moojid of Pakistani Army, the trophy consists of a silver cup with an intricate floral design, surmounted by a globe of the world in silver and gold, placed on a high blade base inlaid with ivory. Atop these are replicas of hockey stick and a ball.