Xalco to replace Harpal in C'Wealth squad

Chennai, Mar 14 (UNI) William Xalco will replace indisposed defender Harpal Singh in India's hockey squad for the Commonwealth Games beginning at Melbourne in Austalia tomorrow.

Indian Hockey Federation (IHF) Secretary K Jyothikumaran told UNI here that Xalco will be flying down to Melbourne this evening to take his place in the squad.

Harpal, a key player in the defence for India, was forced to pull out to due to chicken pox after the team reached Australia, causing a big set back to India's campaign.

The Indian team is hoping to recover from its run of poor performances in the Champions Trophy and the six Test series against Pakistan. Harpal was adjudged the best defender in the series, it may be recalled.

India are scheduled to begin their campaign with a pool match against Malaysia on March 16.

UNI VV PM SND1325