PIB: Union Sports Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya officially unveiled the shiny new Hockey Men’s Asia Cup 2025 trophy today in Rajgir, Bihar. It marks the countdown to the 12th edition of the tournament, set to run from August 29 to September 7 at the newly built Bihar Sports University Hockey Stadium a first for the state.
This event is extra special it’s the first major international hockey event Bihar has hosted, and the trophy ceremony reflected that momentum. The stage was graced by legendary Indian players, including three time Olympic medalist Harbinder Singh, 1972 Olympic bronze winner Ashok Dhyan Chand, and Zafar Iqbal, a 1980 Olympic gold medalist. Officials from the Bihar state government and Hockey India were also present, sharing in the sense of pride and excitement.
The stakes are high. The champion will bag a direct entry to the 2026 Men’s Hockey World Cup in the Netherlands and Belgium. Teams finishing second through sixth will move on to the World Cup qualifiers.
The stage is truly set. India’s squad, coming off a solid performance in a training series against Australia, has landed in Bihar with high spirits. Coach Craig Fulton called Rajgir’s hosting “a wonderful opportunity” to ignite local passion for the sport and build energy around the team. Captain Harmanpreet Singh added that playing here has special meaning, and he hopes the fans match their energy on the field.
