PM Modi Hails Asia Cup Hockey 2025 To 'Inspire Future Generations Of Sports Lovers'

Last Updated:August 28, 2025, 22:45 IST

Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrates Bihar hosting the Men's Hockey Asia Cup 2025 in Rajgir, coinciding with National Sports Day and Major Dhyan Chand's birth anniversary.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi | File Image/PTI

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday expressed great joy over Bihar hosting the Men’s Hockey Asia Cup 2025. He voiced his confidence that the tournament would feature thrilling matches, extraordinary talent, and memorable moments that will inspire future generations of sports enthusiasts.

Modi noted that the Men’s Hockey Asia Cup 2025 begins in Rajgir, Bihar, coinciding with National Sports Day and the birth anniversary of Major Dhyan Chand.

“I extend my best wishes to all the participating teams, players, officials and supporters across Asia," PM Modi posted on X.

Hockey has always held a special place in the hearts of millions across India and Asia, the prime minister emphasised.

“I am confident that this tournament will be full of thrilling matches, displays of extraordinary talent and memorable moments that will inspire future generations of sports lovers," Modi added.

He highlighted the joy of Bihar hosting the Men’s Hockey Asia Cup 2025.

Modi also mentioned that Bihar has recently emerged as a vibrant sporting hub, hosting key tournaments such as the Khelo India Youth Games 2025, Asia Rugby U20 Sevens Championship 2025, ISTAF Sepaktakraw World Cup 2024 and Women’s Asian Champions Trophy 2024.

“This consistent momentum reflects Bihar’s growing infrastructure, grassroots enthusiasm and commitment to nurturing talent across diverse sporting disciplines," the prime minister added.

What Is Asia Cup Hockey 2025?

Three-time champions India aim to secure a World Cup berth by winning the men’s Asia Cup hockey tournament, starting with an opening game against lower-ranked China on Friday.

India and China are in Pool A with Japan and Kazakhstan. Pool B includes title-holders and five-time champions South Korea, Malaysia, Bangladesh and Chinese Taipei.

Kazakhstan, playing their first Asia Cup in over three decades, and Bangladesh replaced Pakistan and Oman, who withdrew from the event.

Pakistan opted out, citing security reasons following India’s Operation Sindoor after the Pahalgam terror attack in April.

The top two teams from each pool will qualify for the semifinals, with the final scheduled for September 7.

(With inputs from PTI)

Ritayan Basu

Ritayan Basu, Senior Sub-Editor, Sports at News18.com. Has been covering domestic and and international football for nearly a decade. Has played and covered badminton. Ocassionally writes cricket content, havin...Read More

Ritayan Basu, Senior Sub-Editor, Sports at News18.com. Has been covering domestic and and international football for nearly a decade. Has played and covered badminton. Ocassionally writes cricket content, havin...

Read More

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First Published:

August 28, 2025, 22:45 IST

News sports PM Modi Hails Asia Cup Hockey 2025 To 'Inspire Future Generations Of Sports Lovers'

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