PHOTO: AFP
KARACHI: Pakistan’s participation in the Kabaddi World Cup, which will take place in Gujarat from October 7, remains a doubt in the wake of recent political unrest between the neighbours.
The event is likely to feature 12 teams including US, Canada, Australia, UK, Poland, Korea, Japan, Kenya, Iran, Bangladesh, Pakistan and hosts India.
The Kabaddi World Cup is one of the biggest events in the region when it comes to traditional sports.
Earlier this year, Pakistan had hosted the Asian Kabaddi Championship, where the International Kabaddi Federation (IKF) officials were also present.
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According to IKF President Janardhan Singh Gehlot, it was still unclear whether Pakistan will be able to compete in the Kabaddi World Cup next month.
“Right now the situation is tricky,” Gehlot told The Express Tribune. “I can’t comment on it. But we have been on friendly terms with Pakistan when it comes to kabaddi. I can’t say anything else at the moment.”
Gehlot was also present in Wah Cantt earlier this year, and the officials had talked about encouraging kabaddi players in the region to come forward to promote the sport.
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Meanwhile, Pakistan Kabaddi Federation (PKF) officials said they were awaiting clearance from the Indian government before applying for the players’ visas.
India and Pakistan have been the main proponents of promoting kabaddi in the world, and officials from the two countries — Ghelot and Muhammad Sarwar from PKF — work together at the IKF for the growth and outreach of the game.
Published in The Express Tribune, September 25th, 2016.
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