Pakistan seek neutral venue for India-hosted Asian Champions Trophy matches

LAHORE: The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) on Wednesday refused to play in the Men’s Asian Champions Trophy in India, formally requesting the Asian Hockey Federation (AHF) to shift the Green Shirts’ matches to a neutral venue amid strained bilateral ties and security concerns.

In a statement, PHF President Mohiuddin Ahmed Wani said the decision aimed to ensure a safe, dignified, and conducive environment for the national players and officials.

Wani stressed that Pakistan remained fully committed to the promotion of the Asian Champions Trophy and international hockey.

“We are ready to play against all FIH member countries, including India,” he said, adding that the PHF remained committed to the principle of keeping sports free from politics.

The PHF president expressed hope that the AHF would positively consider Pakistan’s proposal for a neutral venue to ensure the country’s uninterrupted and full participation in the tournament.

The Men’s Asian Champions Trophy 2026 is scheduled to be held from October 27 to November 5 in Jalandhar and Mohali, with Pakistan, India, China, Japan, Malaysia and Korea among the participating teams.

Jalandhar is set to host the opening ceremony and league-stage matches, while the latter stages of the tournament are scheduled to take place in Mohali.

The development came days after Indian Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann had claimed that Pakistan would participate in the event. India and Pakistan were scheduled to meet in Jalandhar on November 1.

However, Wani, on September 14, clarified that the Green Shirts’ participation in the tournament was subject to government clearance.

“The visit of the Pakistan team will depend on government clearance. We will do whatever the government asks us to do,” Wani had added.

Tensions between India and Pakistan have affected the spirit of sport, with Indian players on several occasions being barred from shaking hands with Pakistani players.