India-Pak hockey Tests at neutral venues?

Karachi:

Pakistan is trying to convince India to arrange a 'Test' series between the two countries at neutral venues before the World Cup in February in New Delhi, national hockey federation chief said on Monday.

Pakistan Hockey Federation President Qasim Zia told reporters after announcing the national squad for next month's Champions Challenge I in Argentina that he was making efforts to arrange maximum matches for the team before the World Cup.

"We are in the process of trying to convince the Indians to play a Test series with us in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah as this would provide ideal practice opportunity and exposure to the team for the World Cup," he said.

He said current relationship between the two neighbours didn't allow for the series to be held in either country but playing at neutral venues was a strong possibility.

Zia, an Olympian and presently an active member of the ruling party in the government, also made it clear that PHF would seek clearance from the government before sending its team to New Delhi for the World Cup.