The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has officially requested the International Hockey Federation (FIH) to move Pakistan’s matches in the upcoming Junior Hockey World Cup out of India. According to reports, the PHF has expressed serious concerns over the safety of its players if they participate on Indian soil.
In a formal letter to the FIH, the federation highlighted the potential security risks for the Pakistani squad and suggested that their matches be scheduled at a neutral venue instead of India.
Tournament Schedule
The Junior Hockey World Cup is set to take place in India from November 28 to December 11, 2025. Teams from around the world will compete for the prestigious title, making it one of the biggest youth hockey tournaments globally. However, Pakistan’s participation has once again become uncertain due to political tensions and safety concerns.
Past Incidents Add to Concerns
This is not the first time Pakistan’s hockey team has faced complications regarding tournaments in India. Recently, Pakistan also skipped the Asia Cup held in India, citing similar reasons. The ongoing strained political relationship between the two countries has often impacted sports, with hockey being no exception.
Neutral Venue a Possible Solution
The PHF’s proposal suggests that moving Pakistan’s fixtures to a neutral country could ensure smooth participation and allow players to focus solely on performance rather than security worries. Such a move, however, would require significant logistical adjustments by the FIH.
What Happens Next?
The FIH has yet to respond to the PHF’s request. If the matches are not shifted, Pakistan’s presence in the Junior Hockey World Cup may once again be in doubt. Sports analysts believe that finding a middle ground is essential, as young athletes should not be deprived of international exposure due to political disputes.
