3 days ago
With Pakistan pulling out over security concerns, Hockey Asia Cup 2025 to begin in India on August 29
Bangladesh likely to replace Pakistan in Asia Cup hockey (Representative image)
The Asian Hockey Federation has announced India's opening match against China in the Hockey Asia Cup 2025, scheduled for August 29 in Rajgir, Bihar, India.
The tournament serves a dual purpose - crowning Asia's top team and providing qualification for the FIH Hockey World Cup Belgium - Netherlands 2026.
The opening day will see defending champions Korea face Chinese Taipei, followed by hosts India taking on China.
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India's pool stage schedule includes matches against Japan on August 31 and Kazakhstan on September 1.
The tournament features eight teams divided into two pools. Pool A includes India, Japan, China, and Kazakhstan, while Pool B comprises Malaysia, Korea, Bangladesh, and Chinese Taipei.
India's rival Pakistan will not be part of the tournament.
Adding to that, Pakistan's withdrawal from the Asia Cup men's hockey tournament over security concerns has raised fresh uncertainty about the stability and hosting of future international events in the region.
The competition will progress to Super4s after the pool stage, with the final scheduled for September 7. The winner will claim both the Asia Cup 2025 trophy and qualification for the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026.
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The tournament lineup has changed with Bangladesh and Kazakhstan replacing Pakistan and Oman.
"The Asia Cup Rajgir Bihar 2025 will bring together the very best of Asian hockey. With World Cup qualification on the line, every match will carry enormous importance. We are confident this edition will showcase thrilling competition, inspire millions of fans, and leave a lasting legacy for the sport in Asia," said AHF President Fumio Ogura.
South Korea leads the tournament's historical success with five titles, while India and Pakistan have won three titles each.
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