Pakistan hockey’s road to the 2026 FIH World Cup has been defined with a decisive three-match series against Bangladesh in Dhaka this November.
The series will take place on 13, 14, and 16 November, with the winner advancing to the World Cup Qualifiers in February.
The International Hockey Federation (FIH) arranged the playoff for Pakistan after the team failed to qualify directly due to its withdrawal from the Hockey Asia Cup in India. Bangladesh, who finished sixth in that tournament, secured the playoff against Pakistan.
The winning side will join 15 other teams in the qualifiers, where only seven will book a ticket to the 2026 World Cup. Opponents in the qualifying round will include Canada, Chile, the United States, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Austria, England, France, Poland, China, Japan, Malaysia, South Korea, and one African team yet to be confirmed.
For Pakistan, victory in Dhaka is vital. A win would revive hopes of reaching the World Cup and provide a much-needed boost for hockey at home, where the sport continues to struggle for recognition and resources.