Pakistan’s national hockey team is unlikely to travel to India this year for two major tournaments, as the government appears ready to reject a request from the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF), citing recent political and military tensions between the two neighbours.
Pakistan is currently scheduled to take part in the Men’s Asia Cup, set to be held in Rajgir, India, from August 27 to September 7, as well as the FIH Junior World Cup in Chennai in November. However, multiple sources have indicated that the federal government is unwilling to approve the team’s travel to India under the current circumstances.
A senior official told Telecom Asia Sport that “there is no chance” of Pakistan hockey team being allowed to take part in these events, especially after recent military exchanges that led to a four-day conflict.
The PHF had reportedly asked for clearance to send the national squad to India, but if the government does not grant permission, the federation plans to request both the Asian Hockey Federation (AHF) and the International Hockey Federation (FIH) to relocate the tournaments to a neutral country like Malaysia or Oman.
While former Olympians have welcomed the news, Pakistan’s potential non-participation could have serious consequences. The Asia Cup serves as a qualifying event for the next Men’s Hockey World Cup. Pakistan already missed the 2023 World Cup held in India and now risks another absence.
In the Junior World Cup, Pakistan have not won the title since claiming the first edition back in 1979. Pulling out of the tournament could set back development for the next generation of players who are peaking at the right time.
Pakistan hockey team last played in India in 2023 during the Asian Champions Trophy in Chennai with no security issues reported. But given the current political climate, such tours now seem almost impossible.
While the Pakistan hockey team may suffer from skipping both tournaments, the government has made it clear that no compromise will be made on Pakistan’s integrity. All eyes will now be on the FIH to find an amicable solution to this problem.
Great news!