Daijiworld Media Network - Mohali
Mohali, Sep 17: Mohali is set to host the 2026 Men’s Asian Champions Trophy from October 27, with Hockey India ruling out any change in venue despite a request from the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) to relocate the tournament or arrange a neutral venue for its matches.
The PHF had approached the Asian Hockey Federation (AHF), seeking either to move the competition outside India or allow Pakistan to play its matches at a neutral venue, citing security concerns for its players and support staff amid strained relations between the two countries.
However, Hockey India secretary general Bhola Nath Singh said the request would not be entertained and that Pakistan would have to travel to India if it wished to participate in the tournament.
“No such request would be entertained. There will be no change in venue. In the past also Pakistan did this, if they want to play in Asian Champions Trophy, they will have to come to India,” Bhola Nath told.
The tournament is scheduled to begin on October 27, with India, Pakistan, Malaysia, China, Japan and South Korea expected to participate.
Uncertainty over Pakistan’s participation continues, with a Pakistan Hockey Federation official earlier telling that the national team had not received government clearance to travel to India. The statement came hours after Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann said Pakistan would take part in the competition.
Mann had also stated that India’s sports policy permitted Pakistani teams to participate in multinational sporting events hosted in the country.
Pakistan has previously withdrawn from tournaments held in India, citing security concerns. The team pulled out of the FIH Junior World Cup in Tamil Nadu last year and subsequently did not participate in the Asia Cup.
Meanwhile, Hockey India has identified Bangladesh and Oman as potential replacements if Pakistan decides against travelling to India.
“We have two teams in Bangladesh and Oman who can take Pakistan's place,” Bhola Nath said.
Pakistan’s participation will depend on the outcome of discussions with the Asian Hockey Federation and the team’s travel clearance. Hockey India has maintained that the tournament will proceed in Mohali, with participating teams required to play at the designated venue.