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Sports
Pakistan Requests Neutral Venue for Asian Champions Trophy Hockey in India
✍️ The Indian Express
🗓 17 Sep 2026, 03:46 AM
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Pakistan has formally asked that the Asian Champions Trophy hockey matches scheduled in India be moved to a neutral venue, citing security concerns.
Pakistan's hockey federation has submitted a formal request to shift the upcoming Asian Champions Trophy (ACT) matches, currently slated to be hosted in India, to a neutral location. The appeal, conveyed to the Asian Hockey Federation, cites security and logistical concerns ahead of the high‑profile tournament.
The ACT, featuring top Asian teams including India, Pakistan, Malaysia and South Korea, was scheduled to commence in early November at venues across India. Organisers had planned the event to boost regional competition and fan engagement, with matches expected to draw sizable crowds.
Indian hockey authorities have acknowledged the request but have not yet issued a definitive response. Officials indicated that any decision will consider the tournament calendar, venue contracts and the broader impact on Indo‑Pak sporting ties. The situation remains under close watch as the federation prepares for the event.
The ACT, featuring top Asian teams including India, Pakistan, Malaysia and South Korea, was scheduled to commence in early November at venues across India. Organisers had planned the event to boost regional competition and fan engagement, with matches expected to draw sizable crowds.
Indian hockey authorities have acknowledged the request but have not yet issued a definitive response. Officials indicated that any decision will consider the tournament calendar, venue contracts and the broader impact on Indo‑Pak sporting ties. The situation remains under close watch as the federation prepares for the event.