The Pakistani government has decided not to send the national junior hockey team to India for the upcoming Junior Hockey World Cup, citing security concerns for the players. Officials confirmed the decision on Thursday following a high-level consultative meeting held in Islamabad.
According to the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF), the government’s stance has already been communicated to the International Hockey Federation (FIH). The PHF stated that while the team had been preparing for months, the safety and well-being of players remained the government’s top priority.
Sources familiar with the matter revealed that the decision was reached after careful evaluation of the current regional situation and the security arrangements offered by Indian authorities. “The government considered all aspects before arriving at this conclusion,” one official said, adding that the move reflects Pakistan’s concerns about ensuring the safety of its athletes during international events hosted across the border.
The Junior Hockey World Cup is scheduled to take place in India from November 28, drawing teams from across the world. Pakistan’s withdrawal marks a significant setback for the national junior squad, which had been looking forward to competing on the global stage.
Sports analysts have expressed disappointment over the decision, noting that it will impact Pakistan’s international ranking and the exposure young players gain through such tournaments. However, they also acknowledged that player security must come first.
The PHF said it would continue to engage with the FIH to explore alternative opportunities for international participation and training in the coming months.
Officials reaffirmed the federation’s commitment to developing junior hockey talent and preparing players for future global competitions under safer and more favorable conditions.
