The Hindu : Sport : Musharraf pat for Indian, Pakistan cricket teams

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Saturday, Feb 11, 2006

Sport

Sport

Musharraf pat for Indian, Pakistan cricket teams

"Both played the game in true spirit"

PAT FROM THE PRESIDENT: Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf greets Sachin Tendulkar at a reception hosted by him for the Indian and Pakistani teams in Islamabad on Friday. Gen. Musharraf congratulated the players of both the teams for "playing the cricket series in true spirit." — Photo: AP

ISLAMABAD: President Pervez Musharraf praised the fighting spirit of both the Pakistan and the Indian cricket teams during their current matches, at a tea party he hosted for them here on Friday.

``The President praised the spirit and discipline of both the teams, describing them as true ambassadors of their countries,'' Pakistan Cricket Board director Abbas Zaidi quoted the President as saying.

Gen. Musharraf switched off his television set after the home team slumped to 39 for 6 in the third and final cricket Test in Karachi.

But switched the set on after the remarkable comeback of the home team which won the match by a huge 341-run margin. He complimented Kamran Akmal, who scored 113 runs, for his "excellent innings."

Words of comfort

Gen. Musharraf offered words of comfort to the Pakistan team captain Inzamam-ul-Haq, who was dismissed in the Peshawar one-dayer for `obstructing the field.'

He stressed the importance of unity of command and patted Inzamam saying the team gelled under his leadership.

He told Indian captain Rahul Dravid that Pakistan and India ranked among the top teams of the world in hockey and more matches will help to hone their skills and regain their lost glory. He also praised Sachin Tendulkar for his century at Peshawar.

The Pakistan team later offered Friday prayers with the President.

— PTI, UNI

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