KARACHI, Oct 9: Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has sought security of its players in wake of the ‘retaliatory’ attacks on Muslims in the Netherlands and Belgium, an official said on Tuesday, SADA News reported.

Pakistan hockey team is to compete in the 23rd edition of the Champions Trophy slated to be held in Rotterdam between Nov 3-11.

“We have written to the International Hockey Federation (FIH) and have sought assurance of our players after reports of attacks on Muslims and mosques in Europe,” a Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) spokesman told SADA.

According to reports, attacks on Muslims are on the rise in the Netherlands and adjoining Belgium after Sept 11 terrorist attacks on USA.

“We want to be on the safer side and it’s better to have a cure suggested before the disease gets out of control,” he said. “We are monitoring the situation with great concern.”

The Champions Trophy, scheduled to be held in Lahore, was shifted to Rotterdam after the European Union advised against traveling to Pakistan over security fears.

“When the European Union can advise Europeans against traveling to Pakistan two months before the event, we can also show our reservations,” the official said.

“Our representative of the competition committee would contest our case for getting the 2002 or 2003 Champions Trophy and we have briefed him,” he added.

Pakistan, after being deprived of this year’s Champions Trophy, has demanded FIH to compensate them by awarding them the event next year or in 2003.

Pakistan’s ten coaches will also take part in FIH Coach’s clinic in Rotterdam, while a delegation of officials are scheduled to take part in the FIH meeting in Brussels, Belgium.

The Pakistan team for the Champions Trophy would be announced on Thursday.