LAHORE, April 10: Around 160 men and women from Pakistan and India will participate in the 10th Balijee bridge championship to be held from April 13 to 16.

Tournament Director Ihsan Qadir told a press conference on Monday that in all 37 teams, including six from India, 12 each from Lahore and Karachi, four from Rawalpindi/Islamabad and one apiece from Hyderabad and Abbotabad had confirmed the participation.

‘Formidable’ from India will defend their title.

He said a tough team ‘Punters’ from Lahore was not participating as one of the team members Tahir Abbas was out of the country.

Besides ‘Formidable’, the other strong teams competing are Delhi Gymkhana, Delhi Bridge Association, Tariq Aces from Rawalpindi.

Tariq Aces would have the services of the legendary Zia Mahmood, who would make a friendly appearance and play few rounds with Tariq Aziz or Javed Khalid.

From Lahore, Aces, Panthers Sherdil's, Silver Stars are expected to do well.

From Karachi, Hadi IV, Giants, Solox Data Steel Chandana and Havoc are prominent outfits.

The Pakistan Junior team that represented Zone IV at Sydney Australia is also competing, for the first time, as a fully fledged contender.

The teams will play 12 Rounds of 12 Board Matches and thereafter the winner would emerge.

Ihsan pointed out that the World Bridge Federation (WBF) had recognised the tournament from this year.

He said seven to eight ladies team would vie for the top honours.

A total cash prize worth Rs630,000 would be given to the top position holders.