Historic decision after Pahalgam attack: Indian players to go to Pakistan for 2027 SAF Games

India Pakistan SAF Games 2027: The brutal terrorist attack in Kashmir's Pahalgam brought diplomatic and sports relations between India and Pakistan to a historic low. In this attack, 26 innocent civilians lost their lives. However, in the midst of this great tension, a big and historic news has come out in the field of sports. India has expressed its in-principle consent to participate in the 2027 South Asian Federation (SAF) Games to be held in Pakistan. If this decision is finally sealed, it will be the first time after the tragic incident of the Pahalgam attack that Indian players will go to play on Pakistani soil

As per Pakistani media reports, a high-level meeting of the South Asian Olympic Association was held recently. The Indian delegation also actively participated in the meeting and officially accepted the invitation to participate in the Games to be held in Pakistan from April 4 to 11, 2027. The full details of the Indian contingent for these International Games will be officially announced in the month of January><

It is worth noting that Pakistan last hosted the SAF Games in Islamabad in the year 2004. Thus, after more than two decades, such a large multi-sport event is making a comeback in Pakistan. In this edition of 2027, a total of 28 sports will be held, for which three cities namely Islamabad, Lahore and Peshawar have been chosen as hosts. In terms of sports allocation, a total of 15 sports, including squash, tennis and martial arts, will be played in the capital Islamabad. Lahore will host 10 sports, including cricket, hockey and swimming, while Peshawar will host 3 sports

Talking about the Indian cricket team, the last time Indian cricketers played in Pakistan was in 2008. However, India has never sent its cricket team in two men's and one women's editions of the previous South Asian Games, so it will be very interesting to see if the cricket team will cross the border this time

Preparations have started in full swing in Pakistan after receiving India's positive consent. Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has reviewed the arrangements at the high-level. He has given strict directions to the federal and provincial authorities to create world-class sports facilities. Comprehensive security, high-end accommodation, transportation and medical assistance have been considered the top priority for foreign athletes, officials, spectators and international media during the stay. The Pakistan Olympic Association has also started the process of coordinating with all participating countries and regional sports bodies for this grand event