Karachi: Pakistan is trying to convince
India to arrange a 'Test' series between the two countries at
neutral venues before the World Cup in February in New Delhi,
national hockey federation chief said today.
Pakistan Hockey Federation President Qasim Zia told
reporters after announcing the national squad for next month's
Champions Challenge I in Argentina that he was making efforts
to arrange maximum matches for the team before the World Cup.
"We are in the process of trying to convince the Indians
to play a Test series with us in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah
as this would provide ideal practice opportunity and exposure
to the team for the World Cup," he said.
He said current relationship between the two neighbours
didn't allow for the series to be held in either country but
playing at neutral venues was a strong possibility.
Zia, an Olympian and presently an active member of the
ruling party in the government, also made it clear that PHF
would seek clearance from the government before sending its
team to New Delhi for the World Cup.
PTI
First Published: Monday, November 23, 2009, 23:08