New Delhi, Aug 29 (PTI): The stage is set for an exciting twist in the upcoming seventh season of the men's FIH Pro League as the Pakistan hockey team is set to compete, potentially leading to thrilling encounters with India. This prestigious tournament is conducted in a home-and-away format.
Besides India, the roster for this season includes powerhouses like Argentina, Australia, Belgium, England, Germany, Netherlands, and Spain. The detailed schedule is yet to be unveiled.
Pakistan earned their spot by advancing from the FIH Hockey Nations Cup held in Malaysia earlier this year. Despite New Zealand clinching the title with a victory over Pakistan, they declined the invitation to join the Pro League this season. Consequently, according to tournament regulations, the FIH extended the invitation to Pakistan, the runners-up, who confirmed their participation, as stated in the official press release.
Amidst these developments, the Indian government maintains its recently formulated sports policy regarding Pakistan, imposed due to heightened tensions following April's Pahalgam terror attack. This policy prohibits bilateral sporting engagements between the two nations. While Pakistani teams cannot visit India for bilateral sports, and vice-versa, multilateral competitions are exempt under the principles outlined by the Olympic Charter, which emphasizes inclusivity.
Nevertheless, citing security concerns, the Pakistani team opted out of the Asia Cup event held in Rajgir, Bihar, which commenced last Friday. In the previous Pro League season, India hosted home matches in Bhubaneswar and embarked on a European tour for away games. The logistics of India-Pakistan matchups remain contingent on the forthcoming schedule from FIH.
"Further details regarding the competition schedule and venues will be announced in due course," the FIH conveyed.
FIH President Tayyab Ikram expressed enthusiasm over Pakistan's return to the top-tier event. "It's great to see Pakistan back in elite competition. Their inclusion marks a significant milestone for global hockey, bringing a rich history and renewed excitement to the FIH Hockey Pro League," remarked Ikram.
He further added, "I anticipate increased visibility for the Pro League with Pakistan's participation. Congratulations to the Pakistan men's team for their qualification through the FIH Hockey Nations Cup, securing their position in the 'League of the Best' for the first time. This milestone underscores the significance of providing opportunities at all levels, paving pathways to the pinnacle of the sport."
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