Pakistan pull out of Asian Hockey Champions Trophy in India, Bangladesh named as replacement

In a major development, Pakistan has officially withdrawn from the upcoming edition of the Asian Hockey Champions Trophy 2026. It is interesting to note that the tournament was slated to be held in India, and with Pakistan’s request for their games to be moved to a neutral venue, the side has decided to pull out. 

The PHF (Pakistan Hockey Federation) sought a neutral venue for their games in the tournament, but their request was rejected. PHF cited concerns



due to heightened tensions between the two countries. After Pakistan’s withdrawal, Bangladesh has been named as the team’s replacement in the tournament. 

Notably, the marquee event is slated to be held from October 27 to November 5, with Jalandhar and Mohali selected as venues for the tournament. The PHF requested the AHF (Asian Hockey Federation), but the AHF stated that the tournament will be held as originally planned despite their security concerns.