New Delhi, June 30: The involvement of Pakistan in the upcoming Men's Asia Cup in India is under scrutiny due to increasing demands for their exclusion following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam and Operation Sindoor. A representative from Hockey India has confirmed that discussions with the government are ongoing, and a final decision will be made based on those talks.

The Men's Asia Cup 2025 is scheduled to take place in Rajgir, Bihar, from August 29 to September 9 at the Rajgir Hockey Stadium. The tragic attack in Pahalgam, which resulted in 26 fatalities, has put the participation of the Pakistan men's hockey team in jeopardy. With the tournament approaching in less than two months, Hockey India is still waiting for government approval regarding the team's entry into the country.

According to a Hockey India official, "We are in communication with the government and will adhere to its directives. Given the current circumstances, I doubt the Pakistan team will be permitted to compete." This statement reflects the ongoing concerns regarding the team's participation in the Asia Cup this August.

The Men's Asia Cup 2025 will also serve as a qualifying event for the 2026 FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup, which is set to be held in Belgium and the Netherlands. The tournament winner will secure a place in the prestigious World Cup.

Additionally, India is set to host the FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup 2025, taking place in Chennai and Madurai from November 28 to December 10. Pakistan's involvement in this junior event is also uncertain due to the rising calls for their exclusion following the Pahalgam incident, especially since they are grouped with their traditional rivals, India, in the expanded 24-team tournament.

The last time the Pakistan men's hockey team visited India was in 2023 for the Asian Champions Trophy held in Chennai, where the Indian team, led by Harmanpreet Singh, triumphed over Malaysia with a score of 4-3, securing their fourth title.