"India friendly in London will be extra special" – Pakistan defender Zesh Rehman

His entry to Pune might have been delayed by 24 hours, but Pakistan international Zesh Rehman of Hong Kong club Kitchee doesn’t have any hard feelings. The defender was denied entry by the New Delhi airport immigration on Monday, but eventually was granted permission to travel from the national capital to Pune on Tuesday.

Despite missing Kitchee’s only training session on Tuesday afternoon, Zesh started their AFC Cup game against Churchill Brothers on Wednesday and completed 90 minutes in a comfortable 4-0 victory. It was a ground-breaking appearance for Zesh, as in the recent past we have seen Indo-Pak relations affect sporting events and sportspersons.

“Firstly I am very happy that we have got the three points and are now looking good for the round of 16. Irrespective of the location I am delighted to help my team win but I obviously enjoyed playing my first game in India. They are a country on the rise and that’s great news for South Asian football,” Zesh told Sportskeeda after the game.

When asked about the long wait to reach Pune, Zesh stated, “I have no complaints. The immigration authorities were just doing their job; there was just an issue with some paperwork.”

Zesh, who was born in England, is hopeful that his first appearance on Indian soil will make a small difference in improving relations between India and Pakistan.

“Yes, I hope my appearance can make a small contribution,” he commented.

The two arch-rivals could be facing each other in an international friendly in London on June 4. Being a former Fulham player, Zesh is very familiar with England’s capital city, and believes it will be a special occasion.

“Irrespective of location any India – Pakistan match is exciting but being in London it will be extra special because it will give the British Asians a chance to watch these two national teams. I am very much looking forward to it,” Zesh opined.