David O’Neill reports on the AFL’s website that the India and Pakistan clash (is) a highlight of IC14. Part of the article has been reproduced below.
The original article can be read in its entirety by clicking here.
The 2014 AFL International Cup clash between Pakistan and India on Saturday August 16 has been hailed the Dosti (Friendship) Cup.
The sporting rivalry between Pakistan and India – usually waged on the cricket field or hockey pitch – is as fierce as any around the globe and makes Carlton v Collingwood look like a match between two old friends.
The clash is one of the highlights of the 2014 AFL International Cup (August 9-23) and will be the first ever Australian Football meeting between the two countries.
While the skills of both sides may be still developing, a huge crowd is expected to attend the game, scheduled for 4.00pm at Highgate Reserve, Craigieburn, which will directly follow the Essendon v Richmond Peter Jackson VFL match.
Both Essendon FC and Richmond FC have strong ties with the Indian community but it’s the Tigers’ colours that the team’s players will wear during the tournament.
The Pakistan side will wear a traditional green strip and are known as the Shaheens, which is the Persian word for Falcons.
While India has competed at the International Cup in previous years, this is the first time Pakistan will be represented.
To celebrate this historic match, dignitaries from both country’s consulates and leaders of both communities have been invited to attend.
To read the rest of the article, click here.