The recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, claimed 26 lives and left many injured. In response, the Indian government mandated Pakistani citizens to exit the country, cancelling their visas. This decision places a question mark over Pakistan's participation in the Asia Cup, set to be held from August 29 to September 7 in Rajgir, Bihar. The probability of Pakistani players receiving visas has dwindled.
The Men's Hockey Asia Cup, a 2026 FIH World Cup Qualifier, faces stormy weather, with Pakistan's participation in this Bihar-hosted tournament uncertain post the Pahalgam attacks. Earlier this month, Hockey India confirmed entries from Pakistan, South Korea, Malaysia, China, and Japan for the continental championship.
An Indian Express source inquired about the possible relocation or permission for Pakistan matches to neutral venues. A Hockey India insider responded, saying they would 'wait and see how the situation evolves in the upcoming months. It's too premature to make any decisions now. Nonetheless, we shall abide by government policies, no matter what they are.
Why is the Asia Cup important?
The Asia Cup holds significant weight as it serves as a World Cup Qualifier, granting the winner a direct ticket to next year's mega-event, co-hosted by the Netherlands and Belgium. Both India and Pakistan are vying for their fourth continental title. India faces competition from defending champion South Korea, having won five times—more than any other nation.
Besides the Asia Cup, Pakistan’s U-23 team is also set to participate in the FIH Junior World Cup, scheduled later this year in Chennai and Madurai. Pakistan's hockey team traversing to India for tournaments isn’t uncommon, having crossed borders thrice in the last decade for the 2014 Champions Trophy, 2018 World Cup, and 2021 Junior World Cup.
Pak's football team in India 2023
In 2023, Pakistan’s football team participated in the South Asian Championship in India, while last year, India's tennis players traveled to Islamabad for Davis Cup matches. Sporting visits between the nations persist, contrasting with cricket's scenario, where both countries agree to play ICC event matches at neutral venues.
