Punjab to Host Historic Hockey Asian Champions Trophy in October

Punjab is gearing up to host the Hockey Asian Champions Trophy from October 27 to November 5, marking a significant milestone for the state. With top teams like India, Pakistan, Malaysia, and others participating, the tournament promises thrilling matches, including a much-anticipated clash between India and Pakistan on November 1. Bhola Nath Singh, Secretary General of Hockey India, expressed pride in fulfilling the dreams of local players and highlighted the importance of this event for Punjab's hockey legacy. The tournament will take place in Jalandhar and Mohali, showcasing the region's rich hockey heritage and its contribution to the sport.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 14, 2026, 17:48 IST

Excitement for Hockey Asian Champions Trophy

Bhola Nath Singh, the Secretary General of Hockey India, expressed his enthusiasm for Punjab hosting the Hockey Asian Champions Trophy this October. He emphasized that this event will allow renowned players like Harmanpreet Singh and Manpreet Singh to showcase their skills in front of their home crowd.

A Milestone for Punjab

Punjab's Chief Minister, Bhagwant Mann, announced that the state will host its inaugural major hockey tournament, where Team India will defend their title against elite Asian teams. The Hockey Asian Champions Trophy is scheduled from October 27 to November 5, with matches taking place in Jalandhar and Mohali. Notably, the highly anticipated match between India and Pakistan will occur on November 1, coinciding with 'Punjab Day'.

Fulfilling Dreams of Players

In an interview, Bhola Nath expressed his pride in fulfilling the dreams of players like Harmanpreet and Manpreet, who have played extensively worldwide but never had the chance to compete in front of their home fans. He thanked the Chief Minister and the state government for their efforts in organizing this significant tournament.

Participating Teams

The tournament will feature top Asian nations, including India, Pakistan, Malaysia, Korea, China, and Japan.

Anticipation for India-Pakistan Match

Bhola Nath is particularly excited about the India-Pakistan match on November 1, noting that many players from both teams share Punjabi roots, which will create a unique atmosphere during the game.

Looking Ahead to the Asian Games

Bhola Nath praised the men's hockey team's recent performances, including their success in Asian tournaments and Olympic bronze medals. Despite a less-than-ideal finish at the recent FIH Men's Hockey World Cup, he remains optimistic about India's chances of securing gold at the upcoming Asian Games in Japan, starting September 19.

Tournament Venues and Schedule

The matches will be held at the Olympian Balbir Singh Senior International Hockey Stadium in Mohali and the Olympian Surjit Singh Hockey Stadium in Jalandhar. Jalandhar will host the opening ceremony and all league matches from October 27 to November 2, while Mohali will stage the semi-finals on November 4 and the final on November 5.

Honoring Punjab's Hockey Heritage

During the tournament launch, key figures from Hockey India and Hockey Punjab were present, celebrating the event's significance. The tournament will highlight the rich hockey legacy of Punjab and its contribution to the sport, with India, Pakistan, South Korea, Malaysia, China, and Japan participating. Oman and Bangladesh will serve as reserve teams.

A Proud Legacy

Dr. Dilip Tirkey, President of Hockey India, expressed gratitude to the Punjab Government for their support in hosting the Hero Men’s Asian Champions Trophy 2026. India won the Asian Champions Trophy in 2024, marking their fifth title, with the tournament held in China.