The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) have ended fears that they would withdraw from the tournament, which opens on February 28, because of fears for their safety following a meeting with their security experts after a visit to India.

Rana Mujahid, the secretary of the Punjab Hockey Association, led the delegation.

He said: "These meetings were very productive as we were told in detail about the security measures being made during the Cup and I would say we are very much satisfied with the arrangements."

During the trip the PHF team inspected team’s hotel, practice and the proposed route from hotel to the stadium and back and they were briefed about the security measures.

Rana said: "The Indian authorities has taken the organisation of the Cup as a big challenge to showcase the image of India in a better way despite recent threats and they are confident to execute a high level security plan during the event to make it a success."

Shahid Pervez Bhandara, the head of the PHF's marketing team, who was also part of the delegation, said: "Security is a very sensitive issue now because of possible threat of terrorist attacks and the organisers are fully committed to do their best for the protection of the participation teams."

Qasim Zia, the President of the PHF, said that he is certain that the Pakistan Government will now give the go-ahead for the team to compete in Delhi.

He said: "I am confident that we will provided best security and that is why our team would be leaving in a couple of days to India to take part in the mega event."


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