Britain not ready to play in Pak

8220;But the problem is that the International Hockey Federation has now indicated to us unofficially that even Great Britain team is reluctant about playing in Pakistan again because of security fears,8221; he said. Mahmood said Pakistan had lodged a protest with the FIH over Australia8217;s withdrawal, but beyond that there was nothing more they could do.

8220;We have given all security assurances to the FIH and the participating teams,8221; he said.

Australia had also not played in the Champions Trophy the last time it was held in Pakistan, in 2004. Media reports have said that Spain might also pull out of the tournament.

Mahmood said the PHF had no fears that the tournament could be shifted out of the country if more teams refused to play in Pakistan because of security concerns.