Musharraf calls for sporting contests

Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf called for more "sporting contests" between India and Pakistan as they will help improve the overall environment in the region.

Musharraf, who interacted with both the cricket teams in the President's House in Islamabad on Friday morning, said besides cricket both the countries should also play more of hockey to retain their dominance of the past.

Increasing sports contacts will have a positive impact on South Asia's political environment, state run channel PTV quoted him as saying.

Talking to the Pakistan team, Musharraf lauded the fighting sprit showed by host country in the Test series, especially in the Karachi Test where they pulled off a "marvellous victory" despite losing early wickets.

He stressed the importance of unity and patted captain Inzmam-ul Haq saying that the team gelled well under Inzamam's leadership.

He told Indian captain Rahul Dravid that Pakistan and India ranked among the top teams of the world in hockey and more matches would help to hone their skills and regain their lost glory.

The Indian team presented a souvenir to him while he presented a gift to Dravid.

The President then had separate group photo sessions with both the teams. Later he along with Pakistan team members took part in Friday prayers in the nearby mosque.