Karachi : Pakistan will only send its national hockey team to India for the upcoming Asia Cup and Junior World Cup after thoroughly reviewing the security situation in the host country, according to a senior government official. If any security concerns are found, the team’s participation may be called off.
Rana Masood, Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Development and Sports Program, stated that Pakistan’s national squad will not travel to India unless the government is fully satisfied with the security arrangements.
“The government will assess the security situation for Pakistani citizens in India. If there is any doubt or concern, no athlete will be sent into a potentially unsafe environment,” Masood said.
“In the wake of India’s Operation Sindoor, it is not currently safe for Pakistani citizens to travel to India,” he added.
The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has reportedly sought guidance and official clearance from the relevant ministries regarding participation in two key tournaments scheduled to be held in India. These include the Asia Cup, set to take place next month and serving as a qualifier for the 2026 World Cup, and the Junior World Cup, later this year.
PHF Secretary General Rana Mujahid acknowledged that Pakistan has previously participated in international tournaments held in India but emphasized that the current geopolitical climate is markedly different.
“We have competed in India in the past, but tensions are high now. Participation will only proceed with formal government approval,” Mujahid said.
He also confirmed that the PHF is monitoring online threats and abuse directed at Pakistani hockey players on social media platforms, adding another layer of concern ahead of any potential India tour.
The final decision on Pakistan’s participation in these crucial hockey events will depend entirely on a green light from national security agencies and ministries, underscoring the sensitive nature of cross-border sports engagements between the two countries.
