Pakistan decides to send 75-strong contingent to Delhi Commonwealth Games 2010

Pakistan has decided to send a 75-member contingent to represent the country in the XIX Commonwealth Games to be held in Delhi from October 3 to 14.

The Pakistan Commonwealth Games Association and Pakistan Olympic Association President Lt. Gen. Syed Arif Hasan told reporters after a general council meeting here on Thursday that due to lack of funds it was not possible to send athletes or players abroad to get high profile training prior to the Games.

“Pakistan will take part in athletics, swimming, boxing, hockey, squash, tennis, weightlifting and wrestling,” he said. “We have a fair chance to win medals in tennis, weightlifting, wrestling and hockey. (Tennis star) Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi has confirmed his participation and his presence will be a big inspiration for Pakistan as he is a medal prospect.”

Lt. Gen. Hasan said he was in touch with Sports Ministry to start preparations for the Games as Pakistan would also participate in the Youth Olympic Games in Singapore, Asian Games in Guangzhou and Asian Beach Games in Muscat. “Preparations should be started as soon as possible as participation in these elite events is a challenging task and requires adequate training and grooming of players,” he said.