Pakistan hockey team will travel to India for Asia Cup: Sports ministry source
The Pakistan hockey team will be allowed to compete in next month’s Asia Cup in India, a source in the Sports Ministry said on Thursday. Approvals have been provided by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), and the Sports Ministry.
The Asia Cup is scheduled to be held in Rajgir, Bihar, from August 27 to September 7. Pakistan’s participation was uncertain amid political tensions, but officials have clarified that there will be no restrictions on their involvement in the tournament.
“We are not against any team competing in India in a multi-national competition. But bilateral is different,” a ministry source said, drawing a distinction between multilateral events and direct bilateral sporting ties.
India and Pakistan are expected to face each other during the Asia Cup and potentially again at the Junior World Cup later in the year, which is also set to be hosted in India. If Pakistan confirms its return to the FIH Pro League, the two sides could also meet in additional fixtures ahead of the Asian Games and the World Cup, provided both nations qualify.
The confirmation ensures the continuation of high-stakes encounters between the two neighbours in global hockey, within the framework of international tournaments.
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