Exclusive: Sports Ministry Approves Pakistan Hockey Team’s Participation in Asia Cup and Junior World Cup in India

In an exclusive development, sources within the Sports Ministry have confirmed that Pakistan's hockey teams have been granted clearance to participate in two major tournaments set to be held in India this year: the Men's Hockey Asia Cup in August and the Junior Hockey World Cup in November.

Speculation had been rife regarding Pakistan's participation, particularly in light of recent geopolitical tensions including "Operation Sindoor" and the "Pahalgam attack." However, top Sports Ministry officials have reportedly given Hockey India the green light to proceed with preparations for both tournaments as scheduled.

Sources indicate that the decision was made to ensure India's adherence to the Olympic charter. Preventing Pakistan from competing in tournaments hosted on Indian soil could jeopardize India's bids to host future international sporting events, such as the 2036 Olympics or the 2030 Commonwealth Games.

This clearance for hockey is expected to set a precedent for other sports as well. India is slated to host several other significant tournaments in 2025, including the World Athletics Continental Tour (bronze level) in Bhubaneswar in August and the Junior Shooting World Cup in September. If qualified, Pakistani teams could also see themselves traveling for these events.