On July 3, 2025, a sports ministry source confirmed that Pakistan’s hockey team will participate in the Asia Cup in Rajgir, Bihar, India, from August 29 to September 7, marking a rare cross-border sports event post-Operation Sindoor.
NDTV and PTI have reported that the Indian Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of External Affairs have granted permission for Pakistan’s hockey team to compete in the Asia Cup, hosted in Rajgir’s new 4,000-seat stadium. A Hockey India source stated, “Pakistan is more than willing to come,” noting this as one of the first visits by a Pakistani sports team since the 2013 Junior World Cup. The tournament, featuring eight teams including India, Pakistan, and Japan, follows a group-stage and knockout format, with India as defending champions.
India To Allow Pakistan Hockey Team To Compete In Asia Cup: Ministry https://t.co/N8Fj2gHnL7 @shivaroor @cheerica pic.twitter.com/Xgm8ePx8Qv
— NDTV (@ndtv) July 3, 2025Relations soured after the April 2025 Pahalgam attack, killing 26 tourists, leading to India’s Operation Sindoor in May, involving drone strikes and social media bans on Pakistani content. Despite this, a sports ministry source told PTI, “We are not against any team competing in multi-national events,” citing the precedents of Russia and Ukraine. The BCCI has not yet confirmed India’s participation in a potential cricket Asia Cup clash with Pakistan in September, pending further discussion.
Pakistan’s hockey team’s participation, alongside clearance for the Junior World Cup, signals a thaw in sports diplomacy despite geopolitical friction. The Asia Cup, broadcast by Star Sports, is expected to draw 50 million viewers, per industry estimates, amplifying its role in fostering cross-border engagement. Hockey India’s proactive approach to permissions reflects a commitment to international sports norms, even amid strained bilateral ties.
