The participation of Pakistan's hockey team in the upcoming Asia Cup, scheduled to be held in Rajgir, Bihar, from August 27 to September 7, 2025, hangs in the balance due to heightened tensions between India and Pakistan. Hockey India (HI) has stated that it will adhere to the Indian government's guidelines regarding Pakistan's participation.
Following the recent Pahalgam terror attack and the subsequent military response, "Operation Sindoor," uncertainty looms over Pakistan receiving clearance to compete. Bholanath Singh, the Secretary General of HI, conveyed to PTI that it is too early to comment definitively, but HI will comply with the government's directive, as has been the practice. He acknowledged the unpredictability of the situation, especially given the recent attack and military response, and reiterated that HI would abide by the government's suggestions.
A source within the federation revealed that Pakistan would not be permitted to travel to India if the government advisory does not provide an all-clear. The Asian Hockey Federation would then decide whether to proceed with a seven-team tournament or incorporate a new team.
The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has urged the Asian Hockey Federation to guarantee visas for its contingent to participate in the Asia Cup. A PHF official emphasized the importance of not missing the opportunity to qualify for the World Cup through the Asia Cup. They suggested either relocating the event from India or obtaining visa guarantees from the Asian Hockey Federation. The official added that while World Cup qualifying events are scheduled for early 2026, the Asia Cup presents a valuable qualification opportunity.
These concerns arose after the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, which resulted in 26 civilian deaths, triggering "Operation Sindoor," an Indian military response. India carried out targeted missile strikes on terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu & Kashmir, reportedly eliminating over 100 militants. Pakistan retaliated with drone and missile attacks, which India claims to have neutralized. India then responded by striking military installations in Lahore and Rawalpindi. A ceasefire was agreed upon on May 10 after discussions between the Directors General of Military Operations of both countries. Despite the ceasefire, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has stated that future engagement with Pakistan depends on verifiable actions against terrorism.
This is not the first time that sporting relations between India and Pakistan have been affected by political tensions. Pakistan was dropped from the 2016 Junior World Cup in India following the Pathankot attack.
The Asia Cup is a crucial tournament, as the winner gains direct entry into the 2026 Men's Hockey World Cup, co-hosted by Wavre (Belgium) and Amstelveen (Netherlands) from August 14 to 30. South Korea is the defending champion, while India and Pakistan both seek their fourth Asia Cup title.
The India-Pakistan field hockey rivalry is one of the most intense in the sport, with numerous encounters in major international tournaments.
