Pakistan Set to Host Several International Hockey Events

Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is set to host several international hockey activities over the coming months, with teams from different countries expected to visit as the sport gains renewed international exposure.

Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) President Mohyuddin Ahmed Wani said the Chinese hockey team is scheduled to tour Pakistan in November 2026, following a visit by the Korean team.

Canada is also expected to tour Pakistan after China’s visit, while three European teams are reportedly preparing to visit the country.

Wani said the arrival of international teams would provide opportunities to promote hockey in Pakistan and increase international sporting activity.

He also said Pakistan is planning to organise a 10-nation international hockey tournament in December next year. In addition, a domestic hockey league is being planned for next year to support the development of the sport at the national level.

Commenting on Pakistan’s participation in the Asian Hockey Champions Trophy, Wani said the decision to move the tournament from India to a neutral venue falls under the authority of the Asian Hockey Federation (AHF).

He said the PHF has already requested the AHF to consider shifting the competition to a neutral venue, but the federation has yet to receive a decision.

“We understand the rules and regulations that have to be followed in this matter, but we have made our position clear,” Wani said.

The PHF president added that Pakistan’s national interests and dignity would remain important considerations for the federation when dealing with international hockey matters.