LAHORE (Kashmir English): The Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) has instructed all national sports federations to seek prior consultation and approval before participating in any sporting events in India due to “security concerns”.
Political tensions between the two neighbouring countries over the years have often spilled over into the sporting arena, creating hindrances in smooth conduct of sporting events.
The national teams from both nations have previously refused to travel across the border for sporting events, preferring to play on neutral ground under a hybrid model instead.
A circular issued by the PSB on Saturday said the decision was taken during the 34th PSB meeting held on Wednesday.
The circular explicitly urged all national sports federations to strictly comply with the directive.
“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,” it said.
Men’s Asia Cup to be played in India
The move comes amid heightened tensions between the two countries. The development follows government’s decision not to send the national hockey side to India for the upcoming Men’s Asia Cup Hockey Tournament, citing serious security concerns for the players.
It is to mention here that the Men’s Hockey Asia Cup 2025 is scheduled to be played in Rajgir, India, from August 27 to September 7, 2025.
