TORKHAM, March 15: The first batch of a 77-strong Afghan contingent crossed the border over to Pakistan on Monday to participate in the upcoming SAF Games scheduled to be held on March 29-April 7 in Islamabad.

SAF Games' protocol officials welcomed the guests who would stay in Peshawar till March 27, when they entered Pakistan at 3:15 p.m. Their second batch will arrive here on March 25.

The Afghans will be imparted training and coaching facilities in accordance with the promises made to them by the SAF Games organizers, before playing preliminary round football matches.

The contingent led by associate secretary of Afghanistan Olympics Association Abdul Saboor Azizi comprises 21 footballers, 29 athletes including a female coach and female athlete, 11 pugilists, and 16 volleyball players.

An upbeat Azizi said after arriving here, "... we are very thankful to Pakistan for (helping us) provide Afghan youth healthy sports activities." He had high hopes his country stood great chances to win medals in football and karate. Four female athletes will take part in the 60m and 100m races, he said.

Robina Muqeem Yad, a female athlete, who also represented Afghanistan in the Iran Games, said that she would try her best to win medal. "I'm fully fit and eager to represent my beloved country in the prestigious event." -APP