FIH Replaces Pakistan With Oman for Junior World Cup

The International Hockey Federation (FIH) on Wednesday confirmed Oman replaces Pakistan in the upcoming Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup 2025 in India.

Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) mentioned. “Under the current situation, it’s not appropriate to go,” said PHF Secretary Rana Mujahid. His tone said it all: disappointment mixed with resignation. 

Pakistan tried to find a middle ground. They proposed playing their matches at a neutral venue. FIH, however, turned down that idea. That decision effectively shut the door.

Oman’s inclusion wasn’t random. They earned the spot based on their Junior Asia Cup ranking earlier this year. For them, it’s a massive opportunity, a first crack at hockey’s biggest youth stage.

That change of team has changed everything for Pakistani players. The tournament dynamics look very different without India vs Pakistan. Oman now joins India, Chile, and Switzerland in Pool B, setting up an intriguing group stage battle.

The Junior World Cup will take place in India from November 28 to December 10. The pool matches are set, and excitement is already growing among the teams taking part.

You could almost feel the shift when the news broke. Fans flooded social platforms with frustration. Omani fans are excited now to see their team perform at the big stage. The Junior World Cup just found its first headline, and it’s off the pitch.

Updated Team Pools

Pool A: Ireland, South Africa, Germany, Canada

Pool B: Oman, Switzerland, India, Chile

Pool C: Japan, Argentina, New Zealand, China

Pool D: Spain, Belgium, Egypt, Namibia

Pool E: Malaysia, Netherlands, Austria, England

Pool F: France, Bangladesh, Korea, Australia