Threats force Pakistan hockey team to pull out of Asia Cup in India

ISLAMABAD: The government has decided not to send Pakistan hockey team to India to participate in the Asia Cup tournament following threats from extremist elements in that country.

According to government sources, Pakistan’s hockey team will not participate in the tournament scheduled to be held in India.

Officials said Pakistan has always kept sports above political agendas, but unfortunately, India has politicized the event and made it controversial. Government officials added that Indian media is spreading toxic propaganda against Pakistan, and extremist groups in India have been openly threatening the Pakistani hockey team.

Due to serious security concerns in India, the authorities have decided not to send the players. Ensuring the safety of athletes is the top priority, and under the current circumstances, participating in the event poses an unacceptable risk.

This decision is likely to impact regional sports relations and could further strain diplomatic ties between the two neighboring countries. Pakistani officials have urged international sports bodies to take notice of the situation and ensure that sports remain a platform for unity and peace, rather than hostility and division