"India’s cancellation doesn’t affect the level of competition as they aren’t good as Afghanistan and Nepal. They’re also ranked below us in Asia," Pakistan Handball Federation President Mohammad Shafiq. PHOTO: FILE
India continued pulling out of sports events in Pakistan with handball becoming the latest victim to fall prey to political tension between the two countries.
The South Asian Handball Beach Championship, scheduled to start from April 2 in Faisalabad, will not see the participation of India players.
However, Pakistan Handball Federation President Mohammad Shafiq seemed least concerned with the neighbours’ withdrawal, saying the participation of teams from Afghanistan and Nepal was ‘all that was needed’.
While Nepal will arrive in Lahore today, Afghanistan are scheduled to reach the country tomorrow, said Shafiq.
“India have shown hesitation and didn’t even apply for the visas,” Shafiq told The Express Tribune. “But their cancellation doesn’t affect the level of competition of the championship as they aren’t good as Afghanistan and Nepal.
“These two sides are among the top Asian teams and it will provide Pakistan a perfect opportunity to improve its game. One progresses after playing with top-quality outfits and India are ranked below us in Asia. It would’ve been nice to have them here as fans would’ve wanted a match between Pakistan and India.”
Pakistan to field two teams
With India pulling out of action, Pakistan will be forced to field two teams in the three-nation championship to balance the draws made, added Shafiq.
“We will have to field two teams now — Pakistan and Pakistan A. This will be done to ensure a fair draw in the competition.” Meanwhile, the Pakistan teams are currently gearing up in Faisalabad, where an artificial sand court has been set up for the event.
“We just needed sand and we have set that up in Faisalabad to host international events.”
Published in The Express Tribune, March 31st, 2013.
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Cancellation of sports events with Pakistan and on Pakistani soil clearly signals the Indian sentiment( policy). I am sure the same has been understood perfectly across the border.
"Pakistan-India: Now handball falls victim to politics"
Not victim to politics. It has fallen victim to terrorism or to put it more pointedly the direct support from Pakistan for a convicted terrorist like Afzal Guru and indirect space to many anti-India jihadi groups.
Anyway it is strange, if Pakistan is not invited to India for games organized by Indian companies - Pakistan is victim and if Indian team withdraws from a Pakistani competition, again Pakistan is victim? Strane logic isn't it?
"“But their cancellation doesn’t affect the level of competition of the championship as they aren’t good as Afghanistan and Nepal."
Sure. Whatever you say.
Let them be out if they want to be . There is life without INDIA