Pakistan Hockey given 48 hours to respond; Organisers keep replacement ready for Asia Cup 2025 if PHF fails to revert

The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has been given 48 hours to respond on whether are coming to India to compete in the upcoming Asia Cup which will be held in Rajgir, Bihar, starting from August 29. Upon failing to which, Bangladesh will be named as a replacement in the eight-team tournament, according to Hockey India (HI).

Despite the Indo-Pak political tensions post Operation Sindoor, the Government of India gave a green light for Pakistan to travel to Bihar for the Asia Cup 2025, keeping the Olympic charter in mind and also said it would provide visas to the Pakistan hockey contingent.

However, the PHF has reportedly refused to travel, citing security concerns. Although, Bangladesh have already been approached, the hosts are still taking two day’s time before announcing the replacement. “The Indian government has already said that it is willing to provide visas to Pakistani players,” a HI official told PTI.

“But if they don’t want to come to India, it’s not our problem. Bangladesh has already been invited to participate in case Pakistan doesn’t come, but we will have to wait for two more days to get the confirmation,” he added. “Neither Pakistan or Bangladesh have confirmed anything to us till now. But Bangladesh are likely replacement for Pakistan,” the official said.

What Asia Cup 2025 hockey means to all teams?

The Asia Cup 2025 will serve as a qualifying tournament for the 2026 Hockey World Cup in Netherlands and Belgium. Apart from hosts India, the other participating teams in the Asia Cup are China, Japan, Malaysia, South Korea, Oman, and Chinese Taipei. South Korea are the defending champions of Asia Cup 2025.

Earlier, HI president Dilip Tirkey had welcomed the move by the Government of India to allow Pakistan participate in the tournament. “If that is the case (allowing Pakistan in the Asia Cup), then its a great news for hockey in the country. Since India is hosting both the Asia Cup and Junior World Cup and Pakistan’s participation in both these tournaments is a great news for the fans,” Tirkey had told this website.