New Delhi, July 3
Amid the growing uncertainty over Pakistan's participation in the upcoming Men's Hockey Asia Cup in India next month, the Sports Ministry sources have confirmed that their team will be allowed to cross the border for the continental tournament.
However, they also added that final approval regarding the same will be issued by the Ministry of External Affairs and the Ministry of Home Affairs.
"We have no objection to Pakistan coming to play in the Hockey Asia Cup in India, as it is a multi-national event. However, I must clarify that matters related to visas fall under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of External Affairs and the Ministry of Home Affairs. Their decision will be final," said sources from the Sports Ministry.
Rajgir, a historic city in Bihar, will host the Men's Asia Cup 2025 from August 29 to September 9 at the Rajgir Hockey Stadium. Following the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22 that claimed 26 lives, Pakistan's men's hockey team's participation in the continental tournament was in jeopardy due to strained diplomatic relations between the neighbouring countries.