India Rejects Pakistan’s Request for Neutral Venue in Asian Hockey Champions Trophy
Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail
Hockey India Rejects Neutral Venue Proposal
Hockey India has reportedly rejected a request from the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) to move Pakistan’s matches in the upcoming Men’s Asian Champions Trophy to a neutral venue.
The PHF had approached the Asian Hockey Federation (AHF) with a request to either relocate the entire tournament outside India or arrange neutral venues for Pakistan’s matches. The federation cited the current bilateral situation and security concerns surrounding the event.
Pakistan Would Have to Play in India
Hockey India Secretary General and AHF Vice-President Bhola Nath Singh said there would be no change to the tournament venues.
According to Indian media reports, Singh said Pakistan would have to travel to India if it wanted to participate in the Asian Champions Trophy.
He also stated that Bangladesh and Oman are reserve teams and could potentially replace Pakistan if the team withdraws from the competition.
Asian Champions Trophy Schedule
The Men’s Asian Champions Trophy is scheduled to take place from October 27 to November 5 in India.
The tournament will feature six teams:
- Pakistan
- India
- China
- Japan
- Malaysia
- South Korea
The league-stage matches will be played in Jalandhar, while Mohali is scheduled to host the semifinals and final.
Pakistan and India are scheduled to meet in Jalandhar on November 1.
Pakistan Still Committed to Tournament
Despite the rejection of its neutral-venue request, the PHF has said that Pakistan remains committed to taking part in the continental competition.
Interim PHF President Mohyuddin Ahmed Wani said the federation had requested a neutral venue to provide Pakistan’s players and officials with a safe, dignified and suitable environment.
Wani also reiterated Pakistan’s willingness to play against India and other International Hockey Federation (FIH) member nations. He maintained that sporting events should remain separate from political matters.
Pakistan’s Participation Remains Uncertain
With Hockey India ruling out a change of venue, the final decision regarding Pakistan’s participation remains uncertain.
The PHF will now have to consider its options ahead of the tournament as preparations continue for the October 27 start.
