Satisfied with security, Aussies leave for Delhi

With their national body finding “no credible security threat” to the World Cup, Australia’s hockey team today left for New Delhi to participate in the tournament starting February 28.

The former champions, who were in two minds about participating in the event following threats from a terror outfit, are satisfied with the security preparations now.

“The information from all sources is consistent. The advice states that there is a strong commitment and tangible evidence of the authorities’ ability to implement robust security measures to ensure our team’s safety at all times.

“All threats have been assessed and there are no known credible World Cup threats at this time,” Hockey Australia said in a statement.

HA said the security assessment has been thoroughly discussed. “Hockey Australia’s board, chief executive and team management have accessed all this information and discussed the findings in consultation with security experts.

Despite security concerns, NZ ready

New Zealand team will leave for India on Monday despite the security concerns, coach Shane McLeod said on Sunday.

McLeod conceded some players are still to be talked out to go to India but confirmed the team would depart as scheduled on Monday, according to a New Zealand Press Association report.
“The New Zealand men’s hockey team will compete as planned at the World Cup in India, although some players have expressed concerns to management,” the report quoting McLeod, said.