Uncertainty Looms Over Pakistan’s Participation in Asia Cup and Hockey Junior World Cup 2025 in India

 

India is preparing to host two major international sporting events later this year—the Men’s Asia Cup 2025 in Rajgir, Bihar (August 27–September 7), and the FIH Hockey Junior World Cup 2025 in Chennai and Madurai (November 28–December 10). While excitement is building, uncertainty surrounds Pakistan’s participation in both tournaments due to security and diplomatic concerns.

According to media reports, Pakistan has stated it will only send its national and junior hockey teams if the security situation in India is deemed satisfactory. Rana Mashood, chairman of Pakistan’s Prime Minister's Youth Development and Sports Programme, said the government would not risk the safety of its athletes. This follows months of tension between the two nations, especially after the Pahalgam terror attack in April and India’s Operation Sindoor in response.

Although Pakistan’s hockey federation had initially sought permission from its government to send teams, a source from the Sports Ministry indicated that the risk was still too high. Participation in the Asia Cup is crucial for Pakistan, as the tournament acts as a qualifier for the 2026 World Cup in the Netherlands and Belgium. Not participating could cost the country a vital opportunity to return to the global stage in a sport where it once dominated.

After prolonged deliberation, India’s Ministry of External Affairs has now granted clearance to Pakistan’s 31-member hockey team to compete in both events. This move is being seen as a rare instance of sports diplomacy, even as cricket relations remain strained. India had refused to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy earlier this year, forcing the final to be played in Dubai. In retaliation, Pakistan has declined to send its women’s cricket team to India for the 2025 ICC Women’s World Cup and 2026 T20 World Cup, opting to play in Sri Lanka instead.

Preparations in Rajgir are in full swing, with new turf fields, floodlights, air-conditioned accommodations, and tight security, including CCTV surveillance and local force deployment. The Indian government has reiterated its commitment to the Olympic Charter, stating that international sport must remain apolitical and inclusive—even amid geopolitical tensions.