India's football friendly against Barbados cancelled
Even before the Indian football team could kick-off its Caribbean tour, their opening game against Barbados on August 17 has been cancelled.
Even before the Indian football team could kick-off its Caribbean tour, their opening game against Barbados on August 17 has been cancelled.
The AIFF released a press statement clarifying the reason. "Due to some unfortunate logistical reasons caused by the sudden change in the travel schedule because of the problems in London, India's first international friendly against Barbados in +One India Caribbean Tour 2011 stands cancelled to avoid undue physical strain and hardship to the players after their long flight."
"The national coach after consultation with the All India Football Federation General Secretary, the National Team Director and the Barbados Football Association decided under the circumstances that the match may result in un-necessary injuries or health problems for the players," it added.
"The AIFF is very conscious that players should not get injured prior to the beginning of the new domestic season and therefore in the best interest of the players and the clubs, found it prudent to cancel the match against Barbados."
The next two matches against Trinidad & Tobago (August 21, 2011) and Guyana (August 24, 2011) would be played as per schedule.