Pakistan wants ACT hockey matches to be shifted from India to a neutral venue

The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has urged the Asian Hockey Federation (AHF) to either relocate the men’s Asian Champions Trophy 2026 tournament out of India or move all of Pakistan’s matches to a neutral venue, citing the "sensitive bilateral situation" between the two nations. PHF President Mohyuddin Ahmed Wani confirmed that the federation had formally approached the AHF.

The proposal emerged two days after Wani told Dawn that Pakistan's proposed tour to India would depend on government clearance. Sources in the PHF indicated that the decision to seek a neutral venue had been made on the federal government's instruction. In an official statement, Wani emphasized that the request aimed to provide a "safe, dignified and conducive environment" for Pakistan's players and officials.

Wani reiterated that Pakistan remains committed to the tournament and willing to face India, stating that the federation hopes the AHF will consider the proposal favorably to ensure Pakistan's full participation. The PHF president also expressed optimism that the AHF would positively respond to the proposal, allowing Pakistan to compete against all FIH member nations, including India.

The PHF's action comes amid a recent statement from Indian Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, who indicated that Pakistan would participate in the tournament, prompting the PHF to clarify that no decision had been made regarding the team's visit to India. The Asian Champions Trophy is scheduled to take place from October 27 to November 5, featuring hosts India, Pakistan, China, Japan, Malaysia, and South Korea.

Matches in Jalandhar, including the opening ceremony and league-stage games from October 27 to November 2, and the semi-finals and final on November 4 and 5, are scheduled to be played in Jalandhar. Pakistan's proposed match against India is set for November 1 in Jalandhar. The PHF's latest move signifies that, while Pakistan seeks to avoid playing in India, it does not intend to withdraw from the competition.

Instead, it is prepared to play against India and other FIH member nations at a neutral venue. Pakistan withdrew from last year's Junior World Cup in Tamil Nadu due to heightened tensions between the two countries.