The Indian Hockey Federation asserted that the bid to host the Champions Trophy would not sour its relation with PHF even though Pakistan called it a “premature” effort by the neighbours.
Security apprehensions among participating teams have created a cloud of doubt over the tournament scheduled in trouble-torn Pakistan in December and India had recently offered to play the host in case the event needed to be shifted to another country.
IHF secretary K Jothikumaran said there was no harm in making an offer and it should not hamper the relationship with PHF.
“We share a wonderful relationship with Pakistan. We are calling them everyday. We are in regular contact with PHF and there is nothing wrong if we offer to host the event. We are not hijacking the tournament from them,” Jothikumaran said.
He said the FIH was yet to respond to the offer made by the IHF. “