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Amidst the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy standoff between India and Pakistan, the sporting rivalry between the two nations has extended to other events. The Indian High Commission has denied visas to a majority of Pakistani players for the upcoming Asia Cup Youth Scrabble Championship and Delhi Cup.The Pakistan Scrabble Association (PSA) has expressed dismay over the decision, stating that half of the team, including previous winners in India, have been denied visas without explanation. The affected players had submitted their applications two months in advance, but the matter remained unresolved.PSA Director Tariq Pervez lamented the setback, emphasizing that Pakistan's absence as reigning World Youth Champions and defending Asian Youth titleholders would diminish the tournament's prestige. He also noted that the players had traveled to Lahore in anticipation of receiving visas, only to be disappointed.The visa denial has further strained sporting relations between India and Pakistan, which have been marred by the debate over the Indian cricket team's participation in next year's ICC Champions Trophy. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has informed the ICC and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) of its decision not to send the ODI team to Pakistan for the tournament.While the PCB remains determined to host the entire event at home, the BCCI has proposed a hybrid format. However, the PCB has yet to make a decision on the matter, as it holds the hosting rights for the tournament.The visa denial for Pakistani scrabble players is a reflection of the broader tensions between India and Pakistan, which have impacted various aspects of bilateral relations, including sports. The outcome of the Champions Trophy standoff remains uncertain, and it remains to be seen whether the two countries can find a compromise that allows for the tournament to proceed as planned.

India and Poland, separated by vast geographical distances, have forged an unexpected bond through the captivating sport of kabaddi. This ancient Indian game has captivated Polish youth, leading to remarkable achievements and a shared passion between the two nations.Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his official visit to Poland, highlighted the "kabaddi connection" between the countries. He acknowledged Poland's success in the sport, including their European Championship titles and representation at the Kabaddi World Cups.To further strengthen this connection, PM Modi met with the captains of Poland's men's and women's kabaddi teams. The sport's popularity in Poland stems from its resemblance to European games like tag and wrestling.The introduction of kabaddi in Poland is attributed to Abhishek Sharma, an Indian who moved to the country in 2007. With the support of the International Kabaddi Federation, Sharma launched the "Kabaddi Project" in 2010. Through his unwavering dedication and financial investment, he has played a pivotal role in popularizing the sport.Poland's men's national team made a remarkable debut at the 2016 Kabaddi World Cup in India, defeating the reigning champions Iran. This achievement showcased the growing potential of kabaddi in Poland.The current visit by Prime Minister Modi is expected to further enhance the kabaddi connection between India and Poland. This shared passion for the sport has fostered a unique bond between the two countries, transcending geographical barriers and uniting them through the thrill and camaraderie of kabaddi.