Pakistan Likely to Skip Asia Cup Hockey in India

News Desk

Islamabad: Pakistan’s route to the next Hockey World Cup has been thrown into uncertainty as the government weighs withdrawing the national team from the upcoming Asia Cup in India over security concerns.

The tournament is scheduled to begin in Bihar on August 29, but sources familiar with the matter say the federal government has decided in principle against sending the team across the border, although no formal notification has yet been issued to the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF).

Officials said the decision is being driven by concerns over the security environment surrounding the Pakistani team, including hostile messages and threats circulating on social media ahead of the tournament.

A senior government official said authorities had asked the PHF to monitor developments, but growing anti-Pakistan sentiment had increased concerns about the safety of players and officials.

“The safety of our athletes is non-negotiable,” the official said.

The possible withdrawal could have significant sporting consequences. The Asia Cup is an important pathway to qualification for the Hockey World Cup, meaning Pakistan’s absence could seriously affect its chances of reaching the global tournament.

Government officials acknowledged the potential impact but said the safety of the national squad remained the priority.

The PHF has yet to receive a formal decision from the government, while deliberations at the highest level are reportedly continuing before a final announcement.

The controversy has also highlighted the wider impact of political tensions between Pakistan and India on sporting ties. Hostile reactions on Indian social media have intensified ahead of the tournament, with some users openly objecting to Pakistan’s participation and issuing warnings against allowing the team to compete.

If Pakistan ultimately withdraws, the decision would represent another setback for bilateral sporting relations and could further complicate efforts to maintain regular competition between the two neighbouring countries.

For Pakistan hockey, however, the immediate concern is the balance between pursuing a place at the World Cup and ensuring the security of its players in an increasingly tense environment.