TV
Pakistan will travel to India later this year to take part in the FIH Junior World Cup, Hockey India secretary general Bholanath Singh confirmed on Saturday. Earlier, Pakistan had pulled out of the ongoing Asia Cup in Bihar, citing security concerns in the wake of the military conflict between the two nations. That decision had cast doubt on their participation in the Junior World Cup, scheduled to be held in Chennai and Madurai between November and December.
“The Pakistan team has confirmed their participation in the Junior World Cup. They informed us last night. After they withdrew from the Asia Cup, I asked them about their availability,” Bholanath said.
He added that preparations for the tournament were nearly complete. “Out of the 24 countries, 23 have already submitted their long lists of players. We are only waiting for Pakistan’s list, which we expect shortly.”
Recently, the Indian government adopted a policy ruling out bilateral sporting engagements with Pakistan but allowing matches in multinational events. This stance followed the Pahalgam terrorist attack, which claimed 26 civilian lives, and the subsequent Operation Sindoor carried out by India.
“Whatever the Olympic Charter requires, the Government of India and Hockey India will respect and follow it,” Bholanath explained. “The government has already approved visas for the Pakistan team. Why they chose not to play in the Asia Cup is something only they can answer.”
He further clarified that international competitions like the FIH Pro League are unaffected by the no-bilateral policy. “If India and Pakistan are placed in the same pool of the FIH Pro League, we will play them. It’s an international tournament,” he emphasized.
