Islamabad, July 26, 2025: The Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) has released a new order instructing all national sports federations to get PSB approval in advance before taking part in any competitions held in India, due to ongoing security threats.
“In view of the prevailing security concerns,” the circular reads, “the PSB Board has decided that no National Sports Federation (NSF) shall commit to participate in any sporting event in India without prior consultation with the Pakistan Sports Board.”
This instruction was finalised during the PSB Board’s 34th session on July 23, 2025, according to PSB spokesperson Khuram Shahzad. A formal notification has also been issued, clearly stating that all federations must strictly follow the new instruction.
“In view of the current security situation, no national federation shall make any commitment or agreement regarding participation in sports events in India without prior permission from PSB,” the circular states.
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This move has come at a time when discussions are underway on whether Pakistan hockey team should travel to India for the Men’s Asia Cup Hockey Championship.
Earlier this month, news reports indicated that Pakistan may skip the upcoming hockey events in India over “security” concerns, which could threaten their qualification for next year’s World Cup.
Pakistan was due to participate in the Men’s Asia Cup for field hockey, scheduled to be hosted by India in August and September. For this, the national federation had asked for the government’s permission.
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“After the recent war the security and safety of our hockey players will be at risk,” said a source in the Ministry of Sports, requesting anonymity.
The official also confirmed that Pakistan will also not participate in the Junior World Cup taking place in India this November.
Back in May, team captain Imad Shakeel Butt also appealed for the Asia Cup 2025 to be moved from India, citing rising diplomatic hostility between the two nations.
“The Asia Cup is crucial for us as it’s a World Cup qualifying event. Given the current political situation between Pakistan and India, we believe the venue should be reconsidered,” he stated.
