“We get police escorts when we go to the stadium for practice and there are a few security people on our hotel (Le Meridian) floor and that's it. It's nothing extra-ordinary.” -Photo by AFP

ISLAMABAD Despite the apparent 'presidential level' security arrangements made for the Pakistan Hockey team, which is currently in New Delhi to take part in the Hockey World Cup, Pakistan coach Shahid Ali Khan has alleged that there is nothing 'extra ordinary' about the security cover provided.

Indian authorities had assured VVIP security cover to all the visiting teams during the World Cup scheduled to be held from February 28 to March 13 in New Delhi after receiving threats from banned terror groups, a private news channel reported.

Khan said the security cover being provided to his team was similar to what could be seen in any international event in Pakistan.

“We get police escorts when we go to the stadium for practice and there are a few security people on our hotel (Le Meridian) floor and that's it. It's nothing extra-ordinary,” he maintained.

However, he said that the team is not bothered about the security issue and is completely focused on the 'explosive' opening match against arch rivals India on February 28.

“We are here for world hockey's biggest competition and we want to give our best in it. It is the biggest match of the event and we are totally focusing on it,” Khan said.

Though Pakistan has beaten India thrice in 2009, Khan said being the host nation India would have an added advantage.

“Home advantage can be a big plus point in such high- pressure matches. But in a way, India will also be under extra pressure because of high expectations of home fans. That can work in our favour,” he added.