CHANDIGARH, Feb 19: Police on Monday tightened security around visiting Pakistani hockey players following a deadly train blast overnight that left 66 people dead.

The security cover for Pakistanis taking part in the Indian domestic hockey league here was increased after the blast in nearby Panipat, Chandigarh police officer Gaurav Yadav said.

“We had been providing routine security to these players, but now we will give each player a personal security cover,” Yadav said.

Pakistan captain Rehan Butt and 11 of his countrymen are taking part in the month-long league in Chandigarh. Pakistani players have been the star attractions at India's annual Premier Hockey League, which was launched in 2005.

Local officials said the PHL, which also features Australian and Spanish players, would continue as scheduled despite the blast which killed 66 and left many injured after ripping through a Pakistan-bound train near the town of Panipat, 120 kilometres (75 miles) south of Chandigarh.—AFP