Bangladesh to feature in Asia Cup Hockey following Pakistan’s withdrawal

Bangladesh men’s hockey team has secured a last-minute spot in the upcoming Asia Cup Hockey, set to take place in Rajgir, Bihar, India, from 29 August to 7 September, following Pakistan’s withdrawal from the tournament.

The confirmation came on Monday after the Bangladesh Hockey Federation (BHF) received official invitations from both the Asian Hockey Federation (AHF) and the host nation India.

“We have received official invitations from both India and the Asian Hockey Federation. Our participation has been confirmed, and the national camp is already underway,” said BHF General Secretary Lt. Col. Riazul Hasan.

Pakistan’s pullout had been the subject of speculation for weeks. The Pakistan Hockey Federation had earlier sought a venue change, citing security concerns in a letter to the AHF. Although India had assured visas would be granted without restriction, Islamabad eventually barred participation, requiring special government approval for any sports tour to India.

As the third-placed team in the AHF Cup, Bangladesh was next in line for qualification, after missing out on a direct spot by failing to reach the final. This marks the first time Bangladesh has entered the Asia Cup through such a process.

The late entry, however, has created logistical hurdles, with visas for players and officials needing to be arranged in less than two weeks.

Bangladesh has been a regular participant in the Asia Cup since 1982 and hosted the tournament in 1985 and 2017. Despite the short notice this year, the national team has already been in training camp for five days, giving them some preparation ahead of the competition in India.