Bangladesh Poised to Step in for Pakistan in Men's Asia Cup Hockey

Potential Change in Asia Cup Lineup

Bangladesh may take Pakistan's spot in the upcoming men's Asia Cup hockey tournament scheduled to take place in Rajgir, Bihar, starting August 29, if Pakistan does not confirm its participation within the next few days, according to a senior official from Hockey India.

The Indian government has already indicated its readiness to issue visas for Pakistani players attending the Asia Cup. However, the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has declined to participate, citing security issues.

Organizers have reached out to Bangladesh to potentially fill the vacancy left by Pakistan, but Hockey India stated that clarity on the situation will emerge within the next 48 hours.

“The Indian government is prepared to provide visas for Pakistani players, but if they choose not to come, that is beyond our control. Bangladesh has been invited to join if Pakistan opts out, but we will need to wait for two more days for confirmation,” the Hockey India official explained when asked about the current status.

“As of now, neither Pakistan nor Bangladesh has confirmed their participation. However, Bangladesh is likely to be the replacement for Pakistan,” he added.

Pakistan's involvement in the Asia Cup, which serves as a qualifying event for the 2026 World Cup, has been in doubt following military tensions with India after the Pahalgam terror attack.

In response to the attack that resulted in 26 fatalities, India initiated Operation Sindoor to dismantle terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan. The PHF has proposed relocating the tournament to a different venue outside India.

In addition to the host nation India, the other teams competing in the Asia Cup include China, Japan, Malaysia, South Korea, Oman, and Chinese Taipei.