Pakistan placed in Pool B for Asian Games hockey tournament

They will face China, Malaysia, Oman, Thailand and Uzbekistan in the group stage

Pakistan have been placed in Pool B for the men’s hockey competition at the 20th Asian Games 2026, where they will face China, Malaysia, Oman, Thailand and Uzbekistan in the group stage, the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) said on Thursday.

The hockey tournament, organised under the Asian Hockey Federation (AHF), will be held from Sept. 18 to Oct. 3 in Gifu, Japan, as part of the continental multi-sport event.

Pakistan will begin their campaign on Sept. 20 against Thailand before taking on Uzbekistan two days later. They will then face China on Sept. 24, followed by matches against Malaysia on Sept. 26 and Oman on Sept. 28.

The top teams from the group stage will advance to the knockout rounds, with Pakistan aiming to mount a strong challenge in a tournament where they have historically enjoyed considerable success.

Pool A features hosts Japan alongside traditional rivals South Korea and India, as well as Bangladesh, Indonesia and Sri Lanka.

The Asian Games have long been a significant competition for Pakistan hockey, with the country having won multiple gold medals in previous editions. However, Pakistan have been working to rebuild their standing in international hockey after a period of decline that saw them miss several major global tournaments.

The 2026 Asian Games will provide another opportunity for Pakistan’s emerging squad to test themselves against some of Asia’s strongest teams, including India, South Korea and Japan, who remain among the continent’s leading hockey nations.

The PHF said the announced schedule will help the national team plan its preparations ahead of the tournament, with further training and selection decisions expected as the event approaches.

Pakistan’s participation in Gifu will be closely followed as the team looks to improve its international ranking and revive its reputation as one of hockey’s historic powers.