Lausanne, October 29, 2025: The International Hockey Federation (FIH) on Wednesday confirmed that Oman will replace Pakistan in the upcoming Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup, scheduled to be held in India from November 28 to December 10.
The decision follows Pakistan’s withdrawal from the tournament due to security concerns.
Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) Secretary Rana Mujahid said the federation had formally notified the FIH of its decision.
“Under the prevailing circumstances, it is by no means appropriate to travel to India and play,” Mujahid said, adding that Pakistan had proposed holding its matches at a neutral venue, a suggestion the FIH declined.
In a subsequent press release, the FIH confirmed Oman’s inclusion, citing its ranking from the 2024 Junior Asia Cup, which served as a qualifier for the World Cup.
“For the very first time, the FIH Hockey Junior World Cups 2025 — both men’s and women’s — will feature 24 teams each, ensuring greater global participation in line with the FIH Empowerment and Engagement strategy,” the statement read.
The pool stage matches will take place from November 28 to December 2, followed by the knockout rounds from December 4 to 10.
Teams and Pools
Pool A: Canada, Germany, Ireland, South Africa
Pool B: Chile, India, Oman, Switzerland
Pool C: Argentina, China, Japan, New Zealand
Pool D: Belgium, Egypt, Spain, Namibia
Pool E: Austria, England, Malaysia, Netherlands
Pool F: Australia, Bangladesh, France, Korea
Pakistan’s withdrawal marks the first time the country will miss the Junior World Cup since 2013, while Oman’s participation adds new representation from the Gulf region.
