MUMBAI: Athens Olympic gold medallist Australia has confirmed its withdrawal from the Samsung Hockey Champions Trophy, to be played in Lahore from 4-12 December 2004.

The decision was taken due to adverse travel advice from the Australian Government. In India, Ten Sports will air the event.

The Bukhatir owned broadcaster is probably smiling at the decision. Australia's loss is India's gain. We were the first reserve for the event from our ranking at the Athens Olympics.

India's arch rival Pakistan had qualified as the host nation. The defending champions are Netherlands

FIH president, Els van Breda Vriesman commented, "FIH has arranged for the Pakistan Hockey Federation to provide the participating teams with details of the security arrangements for the Samsung Hockey Champions Trophy. While we regret Australia's withdrawal, FIH must respect a decision based on a country's governmental travel advice."