Pakistan to Review Security Before Sending Hockey Team to India for Asia Cup

Islamabad: With the Asia Cup and Junior World Cup hockey tournaments set to be held in India later this year, Pakistan has announced that it will assess the security situation before deciding whether to send its national teams across the border.
Rana Mashood, Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Development and Sports Program, stated that the government would not risk the safety of its players. “The government will review the security situation in India for Pakistani nationals, and if not satisfied, it will not put any of our players at risk,” he said.
The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has formally approached relevant ministries for guidance and permission regarding the team’s participation. PHF secretary-general Rana Mujahid acknowledged that Pakistan has previously participated in events in India, but noted the current situation is more sensitive.
Referring to India's recent Operation Sindoor and rising tensions, Mashood emphasized that strained diplomatic relations have created concerns. PHF officials are also monitoring threats directed at Pakistani players on social media.
The upcoming Asia Cup, scheduled next month, also serves as a qualifier for the 2026 Hockey World Cup. Despite the stakes, Pakistani authorities insist that clearance will only be granted if complete security assurance is received from India.