Hockey series between Pak and India veteran teams postponed

A hockey series planned between the veteran teams of Pakistan and India in England has been postponed after the United Kingdom High Commission did not issue visas to eight former Pakistan Olympians and internationals.

The three matches were due to be played on May 13, 14 and 15 with the Berkshire hockey club hosting the matches between the two arch-rivals.

Sources close to former Pakistan players said that apparently the U.K. High Commission refused to issue the visas since the Berkshire club had not got clearance to host the series from the England Hockey Association.

“The rules state that the affiliated clubs have to get permission from the national body for events involving foreign teams and players,” one source said.

The source said since the Pakistani players had not got approval letters from the English Hockey Association, the U.K.  High Commission did not issue the visas.

Those who did not get visas include some top notch former Olympians and internationals who are said to be upset with this development.

The source said that Hockey India had also advised its players not to apply for visas until they get approval letters from the hosts and English Hockey Association.