Pak India hockey series in UK delayed due to visa issues

ISLAMABAD: A three match hockey series between former stars of Pakistan and Indian hockey teams that was scheduled to take place next week is likely to be delayed as some former Pakistan Olympians and internationals could not get UK visa in time.

According to foreign news agency the three matches were due to be played on May 13 14 and 15 with the Berkshire Hockey Club the host.

Pakistan junior hockey team’s head coach and former Olympian Tahir Zaman who was part of Pakistan team for this series told APP that some Pakistan players could not get UK visas in time and now the series might take place at some later dates.

The UK club has planned this series on the eve of laying of a new Astroturf at its hockey stadium.

Though we have not been officially told by the club about the postponement of the series it is unlikely to take place in next week due to visa issues, Tahir Zaman said.

He said around 18 Pakistan erstwhile players were scheduled together in the United Kingdom for the series which was aimed at promoting peace respect and hockey.

Meanwhile Indian media also reported on Sunday that Hockey India had asked its former players not to apply for visas until they get approval letters from the hosts and English Hockey Association.

The rules state that the affiliated clubs have to get permission from the national body for events involving foreign teams and players, the Indian media reported while quoting a source from Hockey India.