Pakistan to Inaugurate Junior World Cup Campaign Against Switzerland on November 28

CHENNAI: The schedule for the FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup was revealed at a high-profile event. A significant match between Pakistan and India is scheduled for November 29.

As per the newly released schedule, the reigning champions, Germany, will compete against South Africa in the opening match on November 28 in Madurai. Subsequently, Pakistan and India will commence their respective tournaments against Switzerland and Chile later that same day.

The highly anticipated match between Pakistan and India is slated to occur at the Mayor Radhakrishnan Hockey Stadium on the following day.

Pakistan is set to conclude its group stage matches against Chile on December 2.

However, Pakistan’s participation in the event is currently uncertain due to recent cross-border tensions with India.

Pakistan also withdrew from the Asia Cup 2025, which took place from August 29 to September 7 in Bihar, where the hosts emerged victorious, defeating South Korea 4-1 in the final.

Sources indicate that the federal government did not authorize the national men’s team to travel across the border for the tournament, citing significant security concerns for the players.

An unnamed government source stated that the “Indian media has initiated a smear campaign against Pakistan, while extremist groups are openly threatening our players on social media platforms.”

The source further added that “Considering the current geopolitical situation and the increasing risks to player safety, sending the team to India is not a feasible option.”