The Tribune: Govt has final say on Pak inclusion

Suspense over team’s participation in Jr World Cup continues | Replacement ready: Batra

By Sabi Hussain

Pakistan’s participation in the men’s Hockey Junior World Cup in Lucknow from December 8 to 18 is subject to government clearance, said Narinder Batra, the newly-elected president of the international hockey federation (FIH). Batra informed that in the event of the Indian government refusing to host the Pakistan team, FIH has a “backup plan” in place.

“I can’t force the Indian government (to allow the Pakistan team). These things are all subject to government approval,” said Batra, who has become the first Asian president of FIH in the world body’s 92-year history.
“FIH always has a backup plan for such situations. Two replacement teams are there. FIH also gives a timeframe for the issue to be resolved. In FIH events, Hockey India (HI) has no role to play,” he added.

Batra also clarified that if the Pakistan team wasn’t given the go ahead by both the governments, FIH won’t be “penalising” the two federations.

“Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has already confirmed the participation of its team in the World Cup. According to the latest, they are coming. But, again, it’s between the two governments. FIH can’t interfere. We won’t be penalising any of the federation,” the 59-year-old said.

The Pakistan team is still awaiting the visa clearance by the Indian High Commission in Islamabad. Pakistan are clubbed in Pool B with the Netherlands, Belgium and Egypt.

The already-hostile relations between the two countries have worsened following the Uri terror attack in Kashmir in September.

Batra also seemed to have a change of heart towards Pakistan after becoming the FIH president. As HI chief, he had ruled out any play with Pakistan, seeking an apology from PHF for its men’s senior team’s boorish behaviour at the 2014 Champions Trophy in Bhubaneswar. Pakistan’s players were also barred from the Hockey India League (HIL).

Batra has now struck a conciliatory note. “As FIH president, my relation with Pakistan will be very cordial. What happens between India and Pakistan, it’s up to them to decide. I won’t be guiding or influencing anyone on that part. But, they have to honour the international commitments,” he said.

Batra revealed that he had a fruitful discussion with his Pakistani counterpart as HI chief two days before the FIH presidential elections in Dubai. “We would like to maintain the dignity of both the countries. Let me assure you that things have been sorted out,” he said.

Batra also informed that HIL will have Bengaluru as its seventh franchise. JSW Steel Group has decided to become a part of HIL.