Bangladesh Hockey Federation Addresses Asia Cup Invitation Rumors

LAHORE: The Bangladesh Hockey Federation (BHF) has refuted assertions made by Indian media outlets that it received an invitation to participate in the upcoming Asia Cup as a substitute for Pakistan, according to credible sources on Thursday.

Sources indicate that an anonymous official from the BHF clarified that neither Hockey India nor the Asian Hockey Federation has extended any formal invitation.

This statement follows reports from various Indian news sources suggesting Bangladesh was considered as a replacement due to doubts concerning Pakistan’s participation in the competition.

Speaking to the press, sources within the BHF dismissed the reports, stating:

  • “We have not been officially invited to participate in the Asia Cup. Neither Hockey India nor the Asian Hockey Federation has sent an official letter.”

However, the BHF acknowledged that Bangladesh is prepared to serve as a backup team, considering the present circumstances. Officials emphasized that quickly assembling and training a national team would present a considerable challenge.

Earlier reports in Indian media, attributed to a Hockey India official, alleged that Bangladesh had already received an invitation.

PHF Awaits Government Decision, Denies Asia Cup Withdrawal

Meanwhile, Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) President Tariq Bugti has also dismissed Indian media reports claiming Pakistan has pulled out of the Asia Cup.

He stated that the final decision regarding participation rests with the Pakistani government, and no official decision has been reached.

Bugti told the media, “No discussions have occurred regarding Pakistan’s involvement in the Asia Cup.”

“Our participation is entirely contingent on the government’s decision, and the federation is prepared to adhere to any issued directives.”

Indian media previously reported that Pakistan declined to participate in the Hockey Asia Cup, scheduled to take place in Jharkhand, India, from August 27 to September 7.

It was also reported that Hockey India had decided to invite Bangladesh instead of Pakistan.