Pakistan pulls back as India host Hockey World Cup

Bangla Press Desk:  The 14th edition of the Junior Hockey World Cup will be held in India in November-December. Pakistan had demanded a neutral venue for their matches. The International Hockey Federation (FIH) did not accept that request. In the end, Pakistan withdrew its name.

Pakistan has pulled out of the 2025 Asia Cup Hockey Junior World Cup, the FIH confirmed today. The name of the new team will be announced soon after Pakistan's withdrawal.

Rana Mujahid, Pakistan Hockey Federation general secretary, said, "We have requested the International Hockey Federation to organize our matches at neutral venues. We are unable to participate as the tournament is in India, which is harming the development of our players."

Hockey India general secretary Bholanath Singh is not yet aware of Pakistan's withdrawal. He said, "India has not received an official letter from the International Hockey Federation regarding Pakistan's withdrawal. If Pakistan does not participate, it is the responsibility of the FIH to announce which team will play in their place."

Sports relations between the two neighboring countries have deteriorated since April. The Indian government has recently formulated a new policy under which bilateral sports competitions with Pakistan have been banned. However, there is still no obstacle for the two countries to participate in global tournaments.

For the first time, 24 teams will participate in the 2025 Junior Hockey World Cup. The tournament will be held in Chennai and Madurai in India. It will run from 28 November to 10 December.

BP/SP