Pakistan’s hockey team will be diplomatically free to compete in the upcoming Hockey Asia Cup in India, as Indian authorities have granted official clearance for their participation.
The 12th edition of the Hockey Asia Cup will be held in Rajgir, India, from 27 August to 7 September 2025, and Pakistan’s participation was subject to speculation given the frosty relations between the two nations, which only worsened this year. However, a spokesperson from India’s sports ministry confirmed on Thursday to foreign media that there were no objections to Pakistan featuring in the tournament, which brings together several Asian nations.
“We are not against any team competing in India in a multi-national competition. But bilateral is different,” the official told Indian media.
This decision clears the way for Pakistan to travel to Rajgir, but whether the Pakistan Hockey Federation will allow the team to cross the border remains to be seen. While PHF remains adamant on taking part in the competition, there is a very real likelihood that they might ask for a hybrid model similar to the one in place for cricket matches between BCCI and PCB.
Whatever the future may hold for Pakistan, the clearance is a relief as the Hockey Asia Cup in India is a key tournament, offering a qualification route to the 2026 Men’s FIH Hockey World Cup.
With some of the administrative hurdles resolved, the focus can shift to resolving where Pakistan’s matches will be played. After the answer to that question, the focus will turn back to hockey itself, where Pakistan will look to revive its proud tradition in the sport and make a strong impression.
gairat bachi hi nhi hum nay, saaf demand kerlaity ky aaaqaa india hum thoray paisy miljai baqi mulk ki izaat ki khair hy.