Industry Odisha Bureau, Sept 17: In latest news, Hockey India has rejected Pakistan’s request to shift the 2026 Men’s Asian Champions Trophy to a neutral venue. They also said that there will be no change to the tournament’s arrangements in India.
The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) approached the Asian Hockey Federation (AHF) seeking either a relocation of the tournament outside India or neutral venues for all of Pakistan’s matches. The PHF cited the current sensitive situation between the two countries and security concerns for its players and officials.
Hockey India secretary general Bhola Nath Singh, who is also an AHF vice-president, said Pakistan would have to travel to India if it wants to participate.
“There shall be no change in the venue,” Bhola Nath told the media. He also added that Bangladesh or Oman could replace Pakistan if the team decides to withdraw/
The tournament will be held from October 27 to November 5. The league stage matches will be played in Jalandhar. Meanwhile, semi finals and the final have been scheduled in Mohali. The other participating teams include India, Malaysia, China, Japan, and Korea.
The latest request comes after Pakistan’s participation had appeared to be confirmed earlier this week. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann had said Pakistan would take part in the tournament. However, the PHF later sought a neutral venue, leaving its participation uncertain.
Notably, Pakistan has previously withdrawn from tournaments in India citing security concerns, including the 2025 FIH Junior World Cup in Tamil Nadu and the Asia Cup in Rajgir, Bihar.
