ICC World T20: Figure of 19 match permits given by India is misleading, says Pakistan High Commission

New Delhi: The saga between India and Pakistan continued to take its course regarding the ICC World Twenty20, as the Pakistan High Commission on Thursday stated that the figure of 19 match permits given by India is misleading and refuted claims of its counterpart.

The Pakistan High Commission officials mentioned that the mission had applied for permits to 34 officials to watch four matches in Kolkata (2) and Mohali (2) respectively.

"The figure of 19 given by India is misleading as it also includes family members of those who have not received approval yet," the official said.

An official of the PHC said that only 10 applications have been approved which include one for High Commissioner Abdul Basit.

"Permits for the defence, naval and air force advisors; press and political counselors; and protocol assistants have not been approved so far," he said.

The official then went on to add that India is not allowing Commission officials to be present at venues where the Pakistani team is playing.

"Pakistan has never hosted a T20 World Cup. India is hosting it but not allowing Commission officials to be present at venues where our team is playing," the official said.

Earlier on Wednesday, Indian External Affairs ministry spokesperson Vikas Swarup had said that considering the occasion, 19 approvals were issued as a gesture to the Pakistan High Commission.

"This has been conveyed to Pakistan ministry of foreign affairs at senior levels," Swarup said.

Earlier the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had kept the team's departure on hold, awaiting an assurance from the Indian government due to security concerns.

Pakistani team reached last Saturday after the venue of the India-pakistan clash was shifted from Dharamsala to Kolkata amidst assurance from the West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee that full proof security would be provided.

India play Pakistan on Saturday in a high-voltage clash at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata.

(With IANS inputs)