NEW DELHI: India’s last round of home matches in the FIH Pro League next month was cancelled on Friday after the New Zealand men’s hockey team called off its Asian leg of the event due to the travel restrictions imposed in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic.
India were scheduled to host New Zealand for the two-leg tie on May 23 and 24 in Bhubaneswar.
New Zealand, in fact, have also cancelled its trip to China.
“Following the New Zealand Government’s travel restrictions and Government lockdown which we find ourselves in at present, combined with the medical advice of our team doctors and in the interests of the health, safety and well-being of our players and support staff, the decision has been made by Hockey New Zealand to cancel our tour of India (Men) and China (Women) at this present time,” HNZ chief executive Ian Francis said.
New Zealand made the decision after the International Hockey Federation (FIH) hinted of extending the suspension of Pro League matches till July-August due to the COVID-19 pandemic. (AGENCIES)