DUBAI, Sept 26: The statement of Indian Hockey Federation’s secretary K. Jyothikumaran in Kuala that Indian team “might play against Pakistan in a four-nation tournament in December in Dubai, logistics of which are being sorted out” has boosted spirits of rejuvenated UAE Hockey Committee but can they make this event happen.

Two years ago, India and Pakistan had agreed to play in Dubai but the plan was dropped following the Indian government’s decision not to have sporting ties against Pakistan.

Raza Abidi, chief coordinator of UAE HC, commented: “Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) too has agreed to play here and we are in process of finalising their terms and conditions.”

Abidi also revealed that Malaysia would be the third country. “We approached Germany but they are not be available so most likely South Africa or Wales will take their place as the fourth team.”

Jyothikumaran has made it clear that India will play against Pakistan in a three or four nation tournament only. “One to one matches against Pakistan are not on for now. We have to wait for government’s clearance for bilateral series.”

Meanwhile, the UAE HC has been given the go-ahead from the UAE Olympic Committee UAE HC to repair the astroturf at the CMC stadium.

The work will commence on Monday with the arrival of astroturf expert Steib Wulf from Germany.

Now that the teams are ready to play in Dubai, it will be a race against time for the UAE HC to find sponsors and raise the funds for staging such an event.—PPI