Hockey India’s Secretary General, Bhola Nath Singh, announced on Friday that Pakistan will participate in the Junior World Cup, hosted in Chennai and Madurai from November 28 to December 10.
“The Pakistani hockey team is coming for the Junior World Cup. They confirmed it last night,” Singh stated.
While Pakistan’s senior team skipped the ongoing Asia Cup in Rajgir due to “security concerns,” they are set for the Junior World Cup.
Recently, India announced a new policy ending bilateral sports encounters with Pakistan but will still face them in international events.
This policy shift follows a conflict arising from a terror attack on April 22 that resulted in 26 civilian casualties in Kashmir.
“We are almost ready for the Junior World Cup. Preparations are in the final stages. We have received player lists from 23 out of 24 countries. Pakistan’s list is expected soon,” added Singh, who also serves as Vice-President of the Asian Hockey Federation.
The Chennai venue is ready, while Madurai’s new turf should be ready within a month.
Participation in FIH Pro League
The International Hockey Federation (FIH) confirmed Pakistan’s participation in the FIH Pro League, a prestigious nine-team tournament. This could lead to matches between India and Pakistan, with venues to be announced later.
When asked about potential India-Pakistan matches in the Pro League, Singh remarked, “We will follow the Olympic Charter fully, adhering to its guidelines for any competition, be it the Pro League or the Junior World Cup.”