It is learnt that some of the Indian players (names withheld for obvious reasons) were keen that their girlfriends attend yesterday's glittering World Cup opening ceremony at the Kalinga Stadium here. Hockey India agreed and asked for a list of the players' names so that the passes can be issued accordingly.

However, on learning that they would have to divulge their names which could probably lead to everyone knowing that they have girlfriends, many of India's shy players backed out.