Pakistan have withdrawn from the proposed tri-nation series involving hosts India and Belgium. The event was scheduled to be held from January 22 to 30 in Chennai.

“Pakistan had initially said they would be here to play but then there was no confirmation that they would come. They had their own reasons for not coming,” Indian Hockey Federation secretary K Jothikumaran told Deccan Herald from Chennai. “Instead, India and Belgium will play a five-match Test series in Chennai with matches scheduled for January 25, 27, 28, 30 and 31.

“Belgium defeated Germany in Europe and the World champions now have to play the qualifiers. So, it is clear that Belgium is a strong team. This series is very important for India as it will help us prepare for the Olympic qualifiers in Chile,” Jothikumaran said.

The secretary also added that the Test series had received the official status from the international hockey federation.

Meanwhile, drag-flicker Sandeep Singh has been ruled out of the series against Belgium. Sandeep has not reported for the ongoing camp in Bangalore. The 10-day camp began on January 10 but Sandeep, who was playing for Chandigarh Dynamos in the final of the Premier Hockey League against Bangalore Hi-Fliers, was to join the camp at the conclusion of the PHL.

Apparently, none of the coaches at the camp have received any information from the defender on his absence. “None of the coaches or manager have been informed that Sandeep will not be coming,” said chief coach Joaquim Carvalho. However, Jothikumaran said the IHF has been informed about Sandeep’s illness. “He faxed us a medical report today saying that he is down with fever and that he has been advised complete rest till January 27,” said Jothikumaran.

“He has been ruled out of the camp and also the Belgium series,” he added.