Overview
- FIH confirmed the Pakistan Hockey Federation has formally pulled its qualified junior team and said a replacement will be announced soon.
- PHF cited player security and strained bilateral relations in deciding not to travel and it formally requested permission to play at a neutral venue.
- Reports indicate hybrid or neutral arrangements have not been adopted by FIH due to logistical and financial constraints.
- Hockey India said it had received no official intimation of the withdrawal and noted Pakistan had earlier confirmed participation.
- Pakistan had been drawn with India, Chile and Switzerland for the tournament beginning November 28 in Chennai and Madurai, marking its second pullout from an India-hosted hockey event this year after the Asia Cup.