Hockey team awaits govt nod to tour Pakistan for tri-nation series

Even though Hockey India (HI) has chosen a development team for the tri-nation series in Lahore, fingers are crossed on whether the government would clear the trip. Apart from the hosts, the April 9-13 event features Malaysia and India.

Even though Hockey India (HI) has chosen a development team for the tri-nation series in Lahore, fingers are crossed on whether the government would clear the trip. Apart from the hosts, the April 9-13 event features Malaysia and India.

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According to a top Sports Authority of India (SAI) official, the government is yet to give its nod. "The picture will be clear in the next few days," he said.

India are ready
On its part, HI has selected an 18-member squad, which had assembled in Bangalore for the national camp. Midfielder Gurbaj Singh, who was dropped from the Olympic Qualifiers in the Capital, due to injury, will lead India's challenge.

Despite the uncertainty, the players are elated at the prospect of touring Pakistan. "We shall prove ourselves," said one of the players. The team also comprises four players who turned out in the Olympic Qualifiers.

With more than two weeks to go, HI secretary general, Narinder Batra, is hopeful of getting the green signal. The tour, according to him, is part of the development plan. "Hence, there shouldn't be a problem," he said.

Squad:
Goalkeepers: PT Rao, Nanak Singh;
Defenders: Rupinderpal Singh, Harbir Singh, Amit Rohidas
Midfielders: Gurbaj Singh (capt), Manpreet Singh, Kothajit Singh Khadangbam, Gurmail Singh, MB Aiyappa, SK Uthappa, Dharamvir Singh, Nithin Thimmaiah
Forwards: Chinglinsana Singh, Akashdeep Singh, Pradhan Somanna, PL Thimmanna, MG Poonacha.

Wizards win
Riding on the brilliance of skipper Shakeel Abassi and Vikramjeet Singh, Delhi Wizards chalked out a 2-1 win against Mumbai Marines in the World Series Hockey at the National Stadium on Monday.

It was must-win situation for both Delhi and Mumbai to stay in the race for the top-four spots in the league table, but it was the former who emerged the better side by collecting three valuable points.

The win improved Delhi's league standing from sixth to fifth.