Pakistan's Hockey Teams Face Travel Ban to India Amid Rising Tensions
Travel Permission Denied for Hockey Teams
The Pakistani government is expected to deny permission for both its senior and junior national hockey teams to travel to India for two significant upcoming tournaments. This decision is attributed to escalating political and security concerns following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam and India's subsequent military operations.
The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) had requested authorization to participate in the Men's Asia Cup scheduled in Rajgir, Bihar, from August 27 to September 7, as well as the FIH Junior Men's Hockey World Cup set to take place in Chennai later this year. However, sources suggest that approval is highly unlikely.
Increased Hostility After Recent Conflicts
Following the April 22 attack in Pahalgam, India launched missile and drone strikes on Pakistan on May 7, leading to a brief conflict that ended with a fragile ceasefire. Given this backdrop, officials in Pakistan's ruling coalition believe it is neither safe nor diplomatically wise to send national teams to India. The PHF is reportedly considering requesting the International Hockey Federation (FIH) and the Asian Hockey Federation (AHF) to relocate the events to a neutral venue, such as Malaysia or Oman.
A PHF insider noted, 'While we will push for the events to be moved outside India, the chances are slim. Neither Malaysia nor Oman is likely to invest the $100,000 required to host.'
Historical Context and Current Tensions
Pakistan's last trip to India occurred in 2023 for the Asian Champions Trophy, where they finished fifth. Despite the competitive nature of the tournament, it concluded without any security or diplomatic incidents, with India emerging victorious.
Recent reports from Indian media indicated that Hockey India had received clearances from both the Home Ministry and the Ministry of External Affairs for Pakistan's participation in future events. However, these reports sparked a media backlash in India, further heightening security concerns in Pakistan.
Political Opposition Grows in Pakistan
The call to prevent the national hockey team from traveling to India is gaining traction politically. Rana Mashood, head of Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif's Youth Affairs program, publicly expressed his reservations.
'While we would love for Pakistan's hockey team to triumph on Indian soil, it is illogical to send our players at this time,' Mashood stated during a media event in Karachi.
Mashood, who has significant influence over sports decisions in the government, previously secured PKR 40 million in funding for the PHF to prepare for the FIH Nations Cup.
Former Olympian Hanif Khan echoed these sentiments, urging the PHF to seek a neutral venue for safety reasons. 'Given the recent conflicts, sending a team to India poses a risk. A neutral site is the only reasonable option.'
Potential Consequences for Pakistan Hockey
Not participating in these events could have severe repercussions for Pakistan hockey. The Asia Cup is a qualifying tournament for the 2026 Hockey World Cup, and failing to qualify could set back Pakistan's hockey development significantly. Notably, Pakistan also missed out on qualifying for the 2023 Hockey World Cup held in India.
The country has not secured a Junior World Cup title since their historic win in the inaugural 1979 tournament.
Pakistan's head coach, Tahir Zaman, acknowledged the uncertainty, stating that players are continuing their training while awaiting the government's final decision. 'Our players are engaged in training camps, preparing both individually and as a team. We are ready to compete, but ultimately, we will abide by the government's decision.'