Final decision awaits green light from Islamabad
The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) and national team captain Ammad Shakeel Butt have cautiously welcomed reports from India indicating that the Pakistani hockey team will be permitted to participate in the upcoming Asia Cup. However, they emphasized that any final decision will depend on formal clearance from the Pakistani government.
According to Indian media reports citing sources within the sports ministry, Pakistan’s team is unlikely to face any travel restrictions for the tournament, which is scheduled to be held in Rajgir, Bihar from August 29 to September 7. The Press Trust of India reported that India’s sports ministry has already obtained the necessary approvals from the Ministries of Home Affairs and External Affairs.
The Asia Cup is a significant event on Pakistan’s hockey calendar, serving as a qualifying competition for the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by Belgium and the Netherlands.
Speaking to Telecom Asia Sport, PHF Secretary Rana Mujahid welcomed the developments but remained cautious. “These reports are encouraging, but we need to verify their authenticity. Ultimately, our participation depends on receiving the necessary clearance from the government,” he said.
In anticipation of potential hurdles, the PHF has already reached out to the Asian Hockey Federation and the International Hockey Federation, requesting assurances that players will be granted timely visas not only for the Asia Cup but also for the FIH Junior World Cup set to take place in Tamil Nadu, India, later in November.
Head coach Tahir Zaman described the developments as a “positive sign” for both Pakistan and international hockey. “While we’re still waiting on official clearance, this gives us hope,” he said. “We’ve advised players to stay fit and are planning a training camp in preparation for the tournament.”
Captain Ammad Shakeel Butt echoed this optimism, calling the reports “welcome news.” He expressed hope that this could mark a turning point in reviving sporting ties between India and Pakistan. “We’re ready to prepare and participate once we receive the go-ahead,” said Butt, who had earlier made a public appeal for the restoration of bilateral sports relations.
