India rejects Pakistan’s neutral venue request for Hockey Champions Trophy

NEW DELHI: India has rejected Pakistan’s request to move its matches to a neutral venue for the upcoming Asian Hockey Champions Trophy, leaving the participation of the Pakistan team in the tournament uncertain.

The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) had approached the Asian Hockey Federation (AHF), seeking either the relocation of Pakistan’s matches to a neutral country or the staging of the entire tournament outside India at a neutral venue.

However, according to Indian media reports, Hockey India has rejected the request and maintained that the Asian Hockey Champions Trophy will be held in India as originally planned.

Hockey India secretary Bhola Nath Singh said Pakistan would have to play its matches in India. He added that if Pakistan decides not to participate, an already announced replacement team could be invited to take its place.

The development comes amid continuing uncertainty over Pakistan’s participation in the tournament, which is scheduled to take place from October 27 to November 5 in the Indian cities of Jalandhar and Mohali.

The issue gained further attention after the chief minister of the Indian state of Punjab claimed two days ago, following the announcement of the tournament schedule, that the Pakistan team would travel to India for the competition.

That claim, however, has not settled the matter, with the PHF subsequently seeking assurances over the venue arrangements.

The Pakistan federation’s request reflects concerns over hosting the national team in India and seeks a neutral setting for its fixtures. A final decision on Pakistan’s participation has yet to emerge.

The Asian Hockey Federation has so far not issued an official statement on Pakistan’s request or confirmed whether any changes to the tournament arrangements are being considered.

The Asian Champions Trophy is one of the region’s major international hockey competitions, bringing together leading teams from Asia. Pakistan and India have a long-standing rivalry in the sport, making their participation particularly significant for fans and broadcasters.

For now, the tournament remains scheduled for Jalandhar and Mohali, while attention is focused on whether Pakistan will accept the existing arrangements or continue pursuing a neutral-venue option.

With the October 27 start date approaching, the AHF’s position is expected to be crucial in determining the next step for Pakistan and the tournament organisers.