Will Pakistan Participate in the Hockey Asia Cup in India?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Pakistan’s participation in the Men's Hockey Asia Cup in India remains uncertain, but the Sports Ministry confirms their team is likely to cross the border for the event. Final approval awaits from external and home affairs ministries. This tournament is crucial for Pakistan, especially after recent diplomatic tensions.
Key Takeaways
- Pakistan's hockey team is expected to participate in the Asia Cup, pending final government approval.
- The Men's Asia Cup 2025 will be held in Rajgir, Bihar.
- It acts as a qualifying event for the 2026 FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup.
- The Asia Cup is a multi-national event promoting international sports.
- The last visit of Pakistan's team to India was during the Asian Champions Trophy 2023.
New Delhi, July 3 (NationPress) In light of the increasing uncertainty surrounding Pakistan's involvement in the forthcoming Men's Hockey Asia Cup in India next month, sources from the Sports Ministry have confirmed that their team will be permitted to traverse the border for the continental event.
However, they emphasized that the final authorization will be provided by the Ministry of External Affairs and the Ministry of Home Affairs.
"We have no reservations about Pakistan participating in the Hockey Asia Cup in India, as it is a multi-national event. However, it is important to note that matters concerning visas fall under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of External Affairs and the Ministry of Home Affairs. Their decision will be final," stated sources from the Sports Ministry.
Rajgir, a historic city in Bihar, is set to host the Men's Asia Cup 2025 from August 29 to September 9 at the Rajgir Hockey Stadium. Following the tragic terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22 that resulted in 26 fatalities, the participation of Pakistan's men's hockey team in the continental tournament was at risk due to strained diplomatic relations between the two countries.
The Men's Asia Cup 2025 will act as a qualifying event for the 2026 FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup, which will be held in Belgium and the Netherlands. The tournament champion will secure a prized spot in the World Cup.
Additionally, India will host the FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup 2025, scheduled in Chennai and Madurai from November 28 to December 10. They have been grouped with archrivals India in Pool B of the expanded 24-team tournament.
Pakistan's men's hockey team last visited India in 2023 when the country hosted the Asian Champions Trophy in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. The Indian team, led by Harmanpreet Singh, triumphed over Malaysia 4-3 in the final, clinching their record fourth title.
Recently, Pakistan participated in the FIH Nations Cup in Malaysia, where they finished as runners-up to New Zealand, who qualified for the FIH Pro League 2026-27 season.
Point of View
I believe that sports have the unique power to foster goodwill and camaraderie among nations. The participation of Pakistan in the Men's Hockey Asia Cup is not only significant for the sport but also represents an opportunity to bridge gaps and strengthen ties amid challenging diplomatic circumstances. Our nation stands firmly with the ideals of sportsmanship and cooperation.
NationPress
03/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Pakistan's hockey team be allowed to participate in the Asia Cup in India?
Yes, sources from the Sports Ministry have confirmed that Pakistan's team is expected to cross the border for the Men's Hockey Asia Cup, subject to final approval from the Ministry of External Affairs.
When and where will the Men's Asia Cup 2025 be held?
The Men's Asia Cup 2025 will take place in Rajgir, Bihar, from August 29 to September 9 at the Rajgir Hockey Stadium.
What is the significance of the Men's Asia Cup 2025?
The Men's Asia Cup 2025 serves as a qualifying event for the 2026 FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup, offering the tournament winner a chance to compete on a global stage.
