The Asian Hockey Federation (AHF) has officially released the match schedule for the Hero Asia Cup Rajgir Bihar 2025, set to take place from August 29 to September 7 in Bihar, India.
Following the withdrawal of Pakistan and Oman, a revised fixture list has been confirmed, with Kazakhstan and Bangladesh stepping in as replacements. The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has yet to issue an official statement regarding Pakistan’s withdrawal.
The prestigious continental tournament will not only decide Asia’s top hockey team but also serve as a qualifier for the FIH Hockey World Cup Belgium–Netherlands 2026, with the winner securing a direct berth.
The championship will begin on August 29, with defending champions Korea opening their title defense against Chinese Taipei at 11:00, followed by hosts India facing China at 15:00 in front of a passionate home crowd.
Pools
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Pool A: India, Japan, China, Kazakhstan
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Pool B: Malaysia, Korea, Bangladesh, Chinese Taipei
After the pool stage, the top teams will move on to the Super4s, with the tournament culminating in the grand final on September 7, where the winners will lift the Hero Asia Cup Trophy and secure their place in the 2026 Hockey World Cup.
AHF President Fumio Ogura expressed his excitement:
“The Hero Asia Cup Rajgir Bihar 2025 will bring together the very best of Asian hockey. With World Cup qualification on the line, every match will carry enormous importance. We are confident this edition will showcase thrilling competition, inspire millions of fans, and leave a lasting legacy for the sport in Asia.”