India Rules Out Neutral Venue for Pakistan at Asian Hockey Champions Trophy

The Men’s Asian Champions Trophy, scheduled to be held in Jalandhar and Mohali from October 27 to November 5, has faced a setback after Hockey India ruled out accommodating the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) at a neutral venue. The PHF had requested either the relocation of the entire tournament or a shift of Pakistan’s matches to safer locations due to security concerns.

However, Hockey India Secretary General and AHF Vice-President Bhola Nath Singh firmly rejected the PHF's proposal, stating that there will be no change in the tournament's venues. Singh also indicated that Bangladesh and Oman are among the reserve teams that could potentially replace Pakistan if the team decides to withdraw from the event.

Despite the rejection, the PHF remains committed to participating in the continental event, with interim PHF President Mohyuddin Ahmed Wani emphasizing the importance of ensuring a safe and conducive environment for Pakistan’s players and officials. Pakistan and India are scheduled to face each other in Jalandhar on November 1. While Pakistan’s participation in the tournament now appears uncertain following Hockey India’s refusal to consider a venue change, the Indian team is set to compete against all other International Hockey Federation (FIH) member nations, including China, Japan, Malaysia, and South Korea.