Pakistan and India revive Kirlosker Trophy golf after 13 years

03 Oct, 2004

Pakistan and India have revived a bilateral golf event suspended for 13 years after an easing of tensions between the arch-rivals, an official said on Saturday.
A four-member Indian team plus a veteran player is due to arrive here on Saturday night for the Kirlosker Trophy last played in New Delhi in 1991.
The competition, based on the format of the Ryder Cup played between Europe and United States, will be played at Lahore Gymkhana Golf Ccourse from Monday to Wednesday.
"It is a fantastic feeling, to see cricket and hockey back on track and now its a historic occasion as we revive the golfing relations," Pakistan Golf Federation official Asad Khan said.
The trophy was first held in Bangalore, India in 1989 and then reciprocated by Pakistan when it was held in Islamabad the next year.
India staged the third edition in New Delhi in 1991 but the fourth edition could not be held in Lahore in 1993 due to political tensions.
"Pakistan and India playing any sport is the most sought after thing so we hope that this can also heat up the greens next week," said Khan.
The Indian team comprises Vikrant Chopra, Jaydeep Parwardhan, Jaskirat Singh and Amarbir Singh. There will also be an above 50 category.
An Indian golf team also participated in an international event in Karachi and then in the SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Co-operation) Trophy in Lahore - both earlier this year.
The Kirlosker Trophy will involve singles, foursome match play, four-ball match play.
Pakistan's team comprises Javed Khan, Vaqas Ahmed, Dr Aimal Zaman and Tariq Mahmood.

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