Pakistan consents to dispatch junior ice hockey squad to India

Pakistan to Participate in Junior Hockey World Cup Despite Asia Cup Withdrawal

Pakistan has confirmed its participation in the FIH Junior Men's Hockey World Cup 2025, despite withdrawing from the Asia Cup earlier this year. The decision comes after the Indian government revised its policy for sporting events involving Pakistan.

The Asia Cup, held in Rajgir, Bihar, saw Pakistan's withdrawal due to "security concerns." However, no further information about Pakistan's participation in the Asia Cup beyond their withdrawal was provided.

India will no longer participate in competitions in Pakistan and will avoid bilateral events there. But, the Junior Hockey World Cup, scheduled to take place from November 28 to December 10 across Madurai and Chennai, India, will see both nations competing. India will represent the nation with their junior team, while Pakistan will field their own team.

India and Pakistan are in the same pool (Pool B) for the Junior Hockey World Cup, along with Chile and Switzerland. The Indian hockey legend Aslam Sher Khan expressed his support for Pakistan's participation, stating that India is a good nation with respect to sports and culture, implying a safe environment for sports events.

The Junior Hockey World Cup will witness simplified visa procedures for sportspersons, team officials, technical personnel, and office-bearers of international sports bodies for a maximum period of five years, as confirmed by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS). However, no information about any potential security measures or arrangements for Pakistan's participation in the Junior Hockey World Cup was provided.

Bhola Nath Singh, Secretary General of Hockey India, confirmed Pakistan's participation in the Junior Hockey World Cup. Despite no information about any discussions or negotiations between the Pakistan Hockey Federation and Hockey India being provided in the text beyond the confirmation of Pakistan's participation, it is clear that both nations are committed to the spirit of sportsmanship.

The Junior Hockey World Cup promises to be an exciting event, with four teams competing for the title. With Pakistan's confirmation of participation, the competition is set to be more intense and exciting. Let's wait and see who emerges victorious in the Junior Hockey World Cup 2025!