Pakistan's Historic Entry into FIH Pro League: What It Means for Hockey Rivalries

The Pakistan men's hockey team is set to make its debut in the FIH Pro League, raising the prospect of exciting matchups against India. This participation comes amid a backdrop of heightened tensions between the two nations, particularly following recent security concerns. The league will feature several top teams, and while bilateral engagements are restricted, multilateral competitions remain open. FIH President Tayyab Ikram has welcomed Pakistan's return, emphasizing its significance for the sport's visibility and growth. As fans await the detailed schedule, the implications of this historic entry are sure to spark interest in the hockey community.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 29, 2025, 17:07 IST

Pakistan Joins FIH Pro League Amid Tensions

In a significant development for international hockey, the Pakistan men's team is set to participate in the seventh season of the FIH Pro League. This opens the door for potential matchups against India, as the tournament follows a home-and-away format.

Alongside India, Pakistan will compete against top teams including Argentina, Australia, Belgium, England, Germany, the Netherlands, and Spain. The complete schedule for the season is yet to be released.

Pakistan secured their spot in the league after finishing as runners-up in the FIH Hockey Nations Cup held in Malaysia earlier this year. Although New Zealand won the tournament, they opted out of joining the Pro League, leading to Pakistan's invitation as the next best team.

The FIH confirmed this in an official statement, highlighting that Pakistan has accepted the invitation.

However, the Indian government has implemented a sports policy that prohibits bilateral engagements with Pakistan due to ongoing border tensions, particularly following the Pahalgam terror attack in April.

As a result, no Pakistani teams will be permitted to enter India for bilateral sports events, and Indian teams will not travel to Pakistan. Nonetheless, multilateral competitions are exempt from this ban, in line with the Olympic Charter's inclusivity principle.

Despite these restrictions, the Pakistani team did not attend the Asia Cup in Rajgir, Bihar, citing security issues.

In the previous Pro League season, India hosted matches in Bhubaneswar and traveled to Europe for away games. The logistics of matches against Pakistan will be clarified once the FIH announces the schedule.

The FIH has promised to provide further details regarding the competition's schedule and venues in due time.

FIH President Tayyab Ikram expressed enthusiasm about Pakistan's inclusion in the league, marking a significant milestone for global hockey.

"It's fantastic to see Pakistan return to elite competition. This is a pivotal moment for world hockey, enhancing the visibility and reach of the FIH Hockey Pro League," Ikram stated.

"Congratulations to the Pakistan men's team for qualifying through the FIH Hockey Nations Cup and securing their place in the 'League of the Best' for the first time. This achievement exemplifies how expanding opportunities at all levels of our sport promotes growth and paves the way to the top," he added.