With just 10 days left for the much-anticipated Asia Cup, the Asian Hockey Federation has released the final schedule after weeks of uncertainty. The changes come following Pakistan’s decision not to travel and Oman’s last-minute withdrawal, with Bangladesh and Kazakhstan stepping in as replacements.
The reshuffle has also altered the pools: India will now compete in Pool A alongside China, Japan, and Kazakhstan, while Pool B features Malaysia, Korea, Bangladesh, and Chinese Taipei.
Pakistan’s absence had been widely expected, with Bangladesh already lined up as its substitute pending confirmation. Oman, which had earned its spot by winning the AHF Cup earlier this year, pulled out on Tuesday. Though no official explanation was given, sources cited financial issues. Ironically, Oman had planned practice matches against India’s junior side in Rajgir before opting out. Bangladesh and Kazakhstan, who had finished third and fourth in the qualifiers, were next in line.
India begins its campaign against China on August 29, then faces Japan on August 31 and Kazakhstan on September 1. The competition format includes a pool stage, followed by a Super 4s round where the top two from each pool play each other once. The two best teams will progress to the final.
The Asia Cup will be staged at the Rajgir Sports Complex from August 29 to September 7, with the champion earning a direct berth to the 2026 World Cup.
AHF President Fumio Ogura said, “The Hero 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.” (Via: AHF)
Updated Pools:
* Pool A: India, China, Japan, Kazakhstan
* Pool B: Malaysia, Korea, Bangladesh, Chinese Taipei
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