The Games successfully hosted around 4,000 athletes at the sensitive venue where strict security arrangements were made to avoid any untoward event.
“It is a huge breakthrough for Pakistan sports,” The POA President Arif Hasan told The Express Tribune. “The National Games success would definitely send a positive message to the rest of the world.”
Hasan added that the POA was under a lot of pressure by various stakeholders who were against the event being held in Peshawar but it took a bold step and gave a go-ahead to the troubled city. “We wanted to a send a positive signal to the world and by ensuring fool-proof security at the sensitive venue, we have also proved that we can host any international event as well.
“The POA, in its annual general meeting later this month, would ask the federations to invite foreign teams. We would assure our full support to them in providing security to the touring teams.”
He said the federations can start hosting international events by arranging competitions at the South-Asian level.
“It is not important to stage big events straightaway. We can start with small events like holding competitions at the South-Asian level. The important thing is that the momentum should not stop.
“We are planning to hold an event in May where Asian teams would be invited. We would provide the best facilities to them and we’re hoping for a good response.”
Davis Cup decision asked to be reviewed
The POA chief said that the Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF) would also be asked to convince the International Tennis Federation (ITF) to review its decision on the Davis Cup relocation. The ITF, following a negative security report, shifted Pakistan’s home Davis Cup tie, scheduled in March to Hong Kong.
Published in The Express Tribune, January 5th, 2011.
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