Pakistan Hockey Team’s Participation in Asia Cup Hinges on Government Approval

Reports from Indian media on Thursday suggest that the Pakistan men’s hockey team is expected to receive permission to compete in the upcoming Men’s Hockey Asia Cup next month.

An insider within India’s Sports Ministry reportedly revealed that preventing Pakistan from participating in the continental tournament would violate the Olympic Charter. The source clarified that while multinational competitions are permissible, bilateral events remain restricted.

“We don’t oppose any team’s participation in India for a multi-national event. Blocking Pakistan would be seen as a breach of the Olympic Charter. However, bilateral events are different, and those restrictions will stay,” the source stated.

The official added, “International sports require us to participate in multi-national competitions. Even countries at war, like Russia and Ukraine, still compete in events. The same idea applies here.”

The report also indicated that the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) have approved Pakistan’s participation in the tournament, which is scheduled in Rajgir, Bihar, from August 27 to September 7.

Hockey India (HI) has welcomed the decision, reaffirming its commitment to follow the Indian government’s directives. HI Secretary General, Bhola Nath Singh, stated, “We welcome the government’s decision. Our position has always been to abide by the government’s decisions. There’s no other consideration.”

The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has made the national men’s team’s participation in the continental event contingent upon government authorization. PHF Secretary General Rana Mujahid emphasized, “We will only participate in the Asia Cup in India if the government grants permission.”

Following the Asia Cup, India is also preparing to host the FIH Men’s Junior Hockey World Cup from November 28 to December 10, with matches planned for Chennai and Madurai.