In what can be described as the big relief to Hockey India League organizers, the nine Pakistani players who were sold to four of the five franchises, have been granted visa.

All these players are expected to reach India today or tomorrow.

A lot of apprehension and concerns were raging the air as to the grant of visa by Indian authorities, due to the fact that clashes between both armies on the Line of Control had occurred which has got huge outpour of anti-Pakistan feeling in India.

However, 1975 World Cup winning captain Ajit Pal Singh, who is Advisor of Delhi based Delhi Waveriders’ franchise, advocated strong sporting ties between the two countries, even as late as yesterday during the team’s launch and jersey function, called Hello Hockey

The nine Pakistani players were supposed to land in India a couple of days ago to be part of launch and promotional activities but could not do so due to reported delay in granting of visa.

The nine Pakistani players — Mohammed Rizwan Jr., Mohammed Rizwaan Sr. (Delhi Wave Riders), Sayeed Kashif Shah (Punjab Warriors ), Shafqat Rasool, Mohammed Irfan (Ranchi Rhinos), Mahmood Tousiq, Mahmood Rashid, Fareed Ahmed and Imran Butt (Mumbai Magicians) — can now heave a sigh of relief.

It is pertinent to note here that Pakistan cricket team is here in India at the moment

Pakistan players have consistently played in all Indian leagues: Premier Hockey League, World Series Hockey and now Hockey India League.