ISLAMABAD/NEW DELHI, October 24: Pakistan has withdrawn from the upcoming Men’s Junior Hockey World Cup 2025, scheduled to be held in Chennai and Madurai from November 28 to December 28, citing security concerns. The International Hockey Federation (FIH) confirmed the development on Friday, stating that a replacement team for Pakistan will be announced soon.
Pakistan was drawn in Group A alongside India, Chile, and Switzerland in the 24-team competition. However, this latest pullout marks the second major tournament the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has withdrawn from in recent months, following its decision to skip the Asia Cup 2025 in Rajgir, Bihar, where Bangladesh replaced Pakistan.
Security Tensions Behind Withdrawal
Reports suggest that Pakistan’s decision stems from ongoing security and diplomatic tensions between India and Pakistan. The Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, which killed 26 civilians, and India’s Operation Sindoor in response, have strained bilateral ties further, affecting cross-border sporting exchanges.
PHF president Rana Mujahid reportedly cited incidents during the Asia Cup — including moments where Indian players refused to shake hands with their Pakistani counterparts — as examples of the hostile environment that influenced the federation’s decision.
Hockey India Responds
Despite the withdrawal, Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey emphasized India’s commitment to inclusivity in sports, saying,
“While Pakistan won’t be playing, the welcome door will always remain open.”
Tirkey added that India remains ready to host all qualified teams in a secure and fair environment, highlighting the nation’s growing stature as a global hockey hub.
FIH to Announce Replacement Soon
The FIH assured that the tournament would proceed as planned, with a replacement for Pakistan to be named shortly. “We are working to ensure the event maintains a full roster and competitive balance,” an FIH official told PTI.
India’s Policy on Bilateral Sports
The Indian government recently formalized its stance on restricting bilateral sporting ties with Pakistan, though it allows Indian athletes to participate in multinational events where Pakistan competes.
With Pakistan’s withdrawal, the competition schedule will be revised for Group A. The Men’s Junior Hockey World Cup 2025 remains a crucial platform for emerging international hockey talent, with players from around the world set to showcase their skills in Chennai and Madurai between November 28 and December 28.
