NEW DELHI, May 1: The jinxed eighth South Asian Federation Games have once again been postponed, according to sources here today. It will now most probably be held next year in either March or April, 1998.

The Games orginally scheduled for September in Nepal, were subsequently postponed to December. Due to various problems including non-completion of infrastructure, and funds, the organisers sought a postponement.

Bangladesh had offered to host the Games in case Nepal backed out, but the Nepal Olympic Committee is still believed to be insisting that it will be able to host the Games in March.

India, it is learnt, is not too keen on the Games next year, as its attention will be focussed on the Bangkok Asian Games and Kuala Lumpur Commonwealth Games.

In a letter to SAF Games member countries Bangladesh Olympic Association President Lt Gen Rahman has said that they are ready to host the 1997 South Asian Games. The reason being, Bangladesh is keen on ensuring the Games stay biennial.

Copyright © 1997 Indian Express Newspapers (Bombay) Ltd.