New Zealand striker pulls out of Hockey World Cup

Concerned over security, Kiwi Striker Simon Child has decided to pull out of the New Zealand hockey squad for the World Cup.
Speaking to reporters, Child said he took the decision because he felt he could not give his best under such heightened security environment.” He said, “It’s not an ideal environment to be trying to play your best hockey and to be performing for your country.” Last week, al Qaeda issued a threat for competitors to avoid the World Cup, the Indian Premier League cricket competition and the Commonwealth Games. New Zealand coach Shane McLeod admitted that security fears have made it difficult for his players to focus on the game. Australia also decided not to go to India for fear of security hazards.