Pakistan has reportedly withdrawn from the upcoming Asia Cup Hockey 2025, scheduled to take place in India later this month, due to security concerns, according to Indian media reports.
The tournament is set to be held in Rajgir, a city in the Indian state of Bihar, from August 29 to September 7. In response to Pakistan’s exit, Bangladesh has been invited to participate as a replacement in the continental event.
While official confirmation from the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) is still awaited, Indian media outlets claim the decision follows internal assessments regarding the safety of the players and staff in light of political tensions and recent security warnings.
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This development marks a significant setback for the region’s sports diplomacy efforts, particularly at a time when both nations continue to face challenges in sustaining athletic exchanges across borders.
The withdrawal may also impact the tournament’s competitive dynamics, as Pakistan has historically been one of the stronger contenders in South Asian hockey.
The Asia Cup Hockey tournament serves as a key fixture for regional rankings and qualification paths for other international events. The inclusion of Bangladesh ensures the event remains an eight-team competition, though the shift underscores ongoing hurdles in organizing cross-border sports in South Asia.
