Bangladesh replace Pakistan in Asian Hockey Champions Trophy 2026

Bangladesh have accepted an invitation to compete in the Asian Hockey Champions Trophy as a replacement for Pakistan after the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) refused to send its team to India under the current circumstances.

The Asian Hockey Federation (AHF) formally invited the Bangladesh Hockey Federation to participate in the tournament, with Bangladesh now set to join the competition scheduled to take place in India from October 27 to November 5, 2026.

According to reports published on October 9, the decision followed Pakistan’s demand for a change of venue or the relocation of its matches to a neutral location.

The PHF had maintained that Pakistan should not be required to travel to India for the tournament under the prevailing situation. However, the federation did not change its position, prompting the AHF to bring Bangladesh into the competition as Pakistan’s replacement.

The development means Bangladesh will get an opportunity to compete against some of Asia’s leading hockey nations in the prestigious continental tournament.

The Asian Hockey Champions Trophy is expected to feature six teams: hosts India, China, Japan, Malaysia, South Korea and Bangladesh. The tournament draw is scheduled to be announced on October 9, providing further clarity on the teams’ match schedules and group-stage arrangements.

Pakistan’s absence marks a significant development for the competition, given the country’s history and standing in international hockey. The decision also highlights the continuing challenges surrounding sporting events involving Pakistan and India, whose sporting engagements have frequently been affected by political and security considerations.

Meanwhile, reports have suggested that prospects are improving for the Indian hockey team to tour Pakistan later this year. However, no confirmed details regarding such a visit were provided in the available report.

Bangladesh’s participation will now fill the vacant place left by Pakistan, allowing the tournament to proceed with six competing teams as preparations continue for the October 27 opening.