We've often heard about the pressure of big matches bearing down on the contestants. But spare a thought for the players involved in this week's Test match between India and Pakistan in the coastal city of Madras.

Shortly before the Pakistan team left for India they were summoned to a meeting with prime minister Nawaz Sharif. He told them he had taken the final decision to allow the tour to go ahead, and they were left in no doubt what their country expected.

When they arrived in Delhi they were transported in bullet proof cars, with commandos appointed as bodyguards to be with the players wherever they went, even sleeping outside their hotel room doors. An estimated 2,000 armed troops will guard the players and officials throughout the Test, which has been threatened by Hindu extremists.

Last week 2,000 police were deployed to circle the stadium and sweep it for any bombs, while over 300 known troublemakers have been arrested and locked up until the last ball is bowled.