Hockey World Cup / PAK team will come to India for Hockey WC, big announcement after Asia Cup controversy

Hockey World Cup: The long-standing tense relationship between India and Pakistan has affected many areas in recent years, including sports. Recently, 26 civilians were killed in a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, after which India took military action under Operation Sindoor. The impact of these incidents was also seen on the sports field, especially in a sport like hockey, which is part of the shared heritage of the two countries. Recently, Pakistan refused to come to India for the Hockey Asia Cup 2025, but now a positive update has come out.

Pakistani team's participation in FIH Junior Hockey World Cup

Hockey India Secretary General Bholanath Singh has announced that Pakistan has confirmed its participation in the FIH Junior Hockey World Cup 2025 to be held in India later this year. The tournament is a prestigious event in the world of hockey, in which under-21 teams from around the world showcase their talent. It provides a golden opportunity for young players to shine on the international stage and emerge as future stars. India, known for its rich heritage in hockey, will host the tournament this time.

Tournament details

• Date: November 28 to December 10, 2025
• Venue: Chennai and Madurai, India
• Teams: Total 24 teams
• Pool B: India, Pakistan, Chile, Switzerland

The tournament is expected to be an exciting one as arch-rivals like India and Pakistan are in the same pool. Germany, who won a record seventh Junior Men's World Cup title in 2023 by defeating France 2-1, will enter the tournament as defending champions.

Pakistan absent from Hockey Asia Cup

In contrast, Pakistan is not participating in the ongoing Hockey Asia Cup 2025 in Rajgir, Bihar. The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) had already informed the International Hockey Federation (FIH) and the Asian Hockey Federation (AHF) that their team would not be able to travel to India due to security concerns. Following this decision, Pakistan had withdrawn from the tournament.

A positive move

Pakistan's decision to participate in the FIH Junior Hockey World Cup can be an opportunity to send a positive message through sports between the two countries. This tournament is not only a platform for young players to showcase their talent, but it will also be an emotional and exciting experience for the fans of both countries. Hockey matches between India and Pakistan have always been high-voltage, and this time the tournament to be held in Chennai and Madurai will add to that excitement.