Pakistanis 'surprised' to find nice arrangements for CWG
Read more: Pakistanis 'surprised' to find nice arrangements for CWG - The Times of India
Pakistanis 'surprised' to find nice arrangements for CWG - The Times of India
NEW DELHI: They had concerns before crossing the border to India for Commonwealth Games, but after arriving in the national capital, members of the Pakistani contingent were "surprised" to find nice arrangements, contrary to what was projected by the media few days back.
"We were pleasantly surprised when we checked-in to the Games Village as the facilities were very good, very much in contrast to what the media had portrayed," said Owais Khan, who will represent Pakistan in 91+ kg super-heavyweight boxing category in the Games.
"We would love to go to all the good places in Delhi," said the burly pugilist, who hails from the tribal region of Baluchistan, during Pakistan's flag hoisting ceremony at the Village on Saturday.
Members from the contingent, in their green jerseys, swayed to the tunes on Bhangra and Giddha dances during the ceremony at the premises of 63.5-hectare Village complex.
"We are happy that India is hosting Commonwealth Games and we hope that our country gets such a chance soon," said Zarif Hussain, coach of the Paralymic powerlifting team.
"We (India and Pakistan) are friends off the field but the competition inside the ring would be intense," added Zarif.
"The food here is great, especially the Paranthas and Chappatis," said Nasir Butt, a Paralympic powerlifter who has already bagged a gold at the last Asian Cup.
The Pakistan contingent that has arrived here on Wednesday, yet to go to the venues to practice and warming up at the Village only.
"We have been confined to the Village area from three days as security people have advised us not to move outside. They have also told us that the situation outside is not very good," said Nasir.
However, the athletes were confident of a medal haul in the Delhi Games.
"I have worked very hard for this Games and hopeful of a gold medal," said Nasir, who is participating in the event for the first time.
Taj Mahal, one of the modern seven wonders of the world, was the hot favourite among Pakistanis and they want to visit the 'symbol of love'.
"We would love to visit the Taj," said Zarif, who was Pakistan coach in Athens and Beijing Olympic Games also.
Read more: Pakistanis 'surprised' to find nice arrangements for CWG - The Times of India
Pakistanis 'surprised' to find nice arrangements for CWG - The Times of India