Pakistan Hockey team asked to go, Women's World Cup affected

NEW DELHI: The bon homie between neighbours India and Pakistan on the playground has become a casualty of political friction. Following the new low in diplomatic relationship between the two countries, Hockey India has decided to send back all nine Pakistani players taking part in its high-profile league.

Following a nudge from the government and amid threats of protests by Shiv Sena and other right-wing extremists, Hockey India decided to send back the Pakistani players. "After discussion with all the stakeholders, Hockey India and Pakistan Hockey Federation have mutually decided to send them (Pakistan players) back due to an extra-ordinary situation which has arisen," Hockey India secretary general Narinder Batra told reporters here.

Cricket was also not spared. Fearing trouble due to Pakistani players' presence in the upcoming Women's World Cup in the city, the Board of Control for Cricket in India has left it on the International Cricket Council to take a final call on the venues for the team from across the border. The matter was discussed at the Board's all-powerful Working Committee and it was decided to convey to ICC the situation prevailing in the country.