The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has rubbished Indian media reports suggesting that Pakistan is pulling out of the upcoming Asia Cup, calling them “baseless and misleading.”
PHF President Tariq Bugti clarified that no such decision has been made and no communication was sent to the Indian Hockey Federation — nor is there any obligation to do so. He confirmed that Pakistan’s participation depends solely on government approval and ongoing coordination with the Asian Hockey Federation.
Meanwhile, Indian claims that Bangladesh would replace Pakistan have also hit a wall. The Bangladesh Hockey Federation has denied receiving any official invitation from either Hockey India or the Asian federation.
So far, the storm around Pakistan’s alleged withdrawal seems to be much ado about nothing — with both Pakistan and Bangladesh calling out the premature speculation.
The Asia Cup Hockey tournament is slated to take place in Rajgir, India, from August 29 to September 7.