Pakistan threatens to pull out of Hockey World Cup in Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar: Uncertainty over participation of Pakistan in a sporting event in India has once again surfaced after the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) raked-up visa and security issues ahead of the Men’s Hockey World Cup scheduled to be held in Odisha in 2018.

According to reports, the Pakistan Hockey Federation president Khalid Khokar threatened not to send its team to India unless they are assured foolproof security and early visas.

The PHF president told media that during his recent meetings with International Hockey Federation (FIH) President, Narinder Batra in Dubai, he has made it clear that Pakistan team should be guaranteed adequate security during the World Cup in India.

Also Read: OTV Exclusive: Uncertainty over participation of Pak contingent in Asian Athletics Championship

"We had a very good meeting as we conveyed all our concerns to Batra and other FIH member boards. I have made it clear that we want assurances from FIH that we will face no problems in procurement of visas and be given top security during the event," Khokar claimed to have told Batra.

This is for the second time that uncertainty looms over participation of the Pakistani contingent in a sporting event held in India particularly in Odisha.

Controversy surrounded participation of the Pakistan team in the 22nd Asian Athletics Championships held at Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar in July this year. The matter was only resolved after intervention of the Indian Embassy.

Meanwhile, the Odisha government has started making preliminary preparations for the Men’s Hockey World Cup in 2018.  On September 4, Odisha Chief Secretary, Aditya Padhi held a meeting with Hockey India CEO, Elena Norman to discuss the requirements for the mega event.

Also Read: Asian Athletics Championship: Team Pakistan reaches Bhubaneswar

(With PTI inputs)

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