LAHORE, Dec 21: Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) chief Lt. Gen Mohammad Aziz Khan on Saturday declared that Pakistan was willing to play India anywhere including at a neutral venue and the ball was in India’s court to decide on this issue.

“Pakistan will go to India if invited as it considers sports and politics two entirely different subjects” he said.

General Aziz pointed out that Indian hockey officials were ready to arrange matches with Pakistan, but were waiting for formal approval from the government. 

He said that both the federations had discussed different options to revive the hockey ties between the two neighbouring countries.

Indian government is not allowing its hockey and cricket teams to play against Pakistan in bi-lateral competitions.

PHF boss was hopeful of international hockey returning to Pakistan as the game’s ruling body International Hockey Federation had awarded the Champions’ Trophy-2004 to the country.

The Asian Hockey Federation he said had also given the World Cup qualifying round and the Junior Asia Cup to Pakistan. Both the events will be held in 2004.