Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) President Tariq Bugti has strongly denied Hockey India’s claims that Pakistan has withdrawn from the upcoming Asia Cup.

 

Speaking to a private media outlet, Bugti said, “How can Hockey India say that we have refused to participate in the Asia Cup? We have not spoken to anyone about such a decision.” He clarified that the PHF has never had direct contact with Hockey India, and all communication regarding the tournament is carried through the Asian Hockey Federation (AHF).

 

“It is not up to us to decide whether to travel to India or not. That decision rests with the Government of Pakistan. We are waiting for the government’s direction and will act according to its decision,” Bugti added.

 

Meanwhile, Bangladesh has also denied receiving any formal invitation to replace Pakistan in the tournament. According to reports citing sources in the Bangladesh Hockey Federation (BHF), no official letter has been sent by either Hockey India or the AHF.

 

“Everyone is aware of the situation. Bangladesh is on standby, but forming and preparing a team at such short notice is not easy. We will consider our participation only if we receive an official invitation,” said BHF sources.

 

Earlier, Indian media had quoted a Hockey India official claiming that Pakistan had declined to participate in the Asia Cup due to security concerns and that Bangladesh had been invited to take their place. 

 

These claims have now been rejected by both the Pakistan Hockey Federation and the Bangladesh Hockey Federation.