‘Avoid Confirming Participation in Indian Events’: Pakistan Sports Board Instructs Federations
All national sports bodies must obtain approval from the PSB before making any commitment, assurance, or announcement regarding involvement in tournaments held in India.
In a notable development reflecting the tense political relations between the two countries, the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) has issued a firm instruction to all national sports federations: avoid confirming involvement in any Indian-based events without prior consultation and consent from the board. This directive, finalized during the PSB’s 34th meeting on July 23, is attributed to what the board describes as “ongoing security issues” and “regional sensitivities.”
The order, circulated in an official notice, makes it compulsory for all sports bodies under the PSB to gain prior approval before committing or declaring participation in sporting events hosted in India.
“In light of the current security circumstances, no national federation is permitted to enter into any agreement or make promises concerning participation in sports competitions in India without advance clearance from the PSB,” the notice said, stressing strict compliance with this updated policy. The move, reportedly implemented under “specific directions from the Prime Minister’s Office,” represents a tighter grip on sporting interactions with India.
This decision follows rising hostilities between India and Pakistan, especially after the April 22 terror assault in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, where 26 civilians were killed. India has accused terrorist groups supported by Pakistan of orchestrating the attack, while Pakistan has strongly rejected the allegations. This led to a chain of diplomatic responses and a brief military escalation in May, although a ceasefire was later declared after Pakistan initiated peace talks.
The directive’s immediate effect can be seen in several forthcoming international sports fixtures. Pakistan’s men’s national hockey squad has already pulled out of the Men’s Hockey Asia Cup, slated to be hosted in Rajgir, India, from August 27 to September 7, citing “grave security concerns.” Reports also suggest that Pakistan will not take part in the Junior Hockey World Cup, planned in India this November.
Moreover, the matter of India and Pakistan competing in multi-nation tournaments continues to be a subject of debate. While bilateral sporting ties have remained frozen since the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, multinational events such as the Asia Cup cricket tournament are being shifted to neutral locations. The 2025 edition of the Asia Cup is scheduled to be hosted in the UAE this September, according to confirmation from Asian Cricket Council chief Mohsin Naqvi.
