Breaking HIL: Uncertainty over availability of Pakistan players ends, players get visas

Hockey India – the organizers of the inaugural Hero Hockey India League (HIL) – heaved a huge sigh of relief about the uncertainty over the availability of the Pakistan players in the league due to visa issues.

According to Hockey India sources, the nine Pakistan players, who will showcase their skills for the five franchises, received their visas from the Indian High Commission in Islamabad on Thursday.

The Pakistan players are expected to link up with their respective franchises in time for the league kickstarting in Delhi on January 14.

There was intense speculation about the arrival of the Pakistan players following the alleged killing of two Indian soldiers at the Line of Control (LOC) in Kashmir by the Pakistan army.

Four of the five HIL franchises feature Pakistan players. Mumbai Magicians have as many as four Pakistan players in their ranks – goalkeeper Imran Butt and three midfielders - Rashid Mehmood, Fareed Ahmed Muhammad Tousiq.

Delhi Wave Riders features forward Mohammad Rizwan Sr and midfielder Mohammad Rizwan Jr, while Jaypee Punjab Warriors have defender Syed Kashif Shah in their ranks.

Ranchi Rhinos have two Pakistanis – forward Shafqat Rasool and defender Muhammad Irfan.

Uttar Pradesh Wizards is the only franchise not to have a single Pakistan player.