Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said it was a matter of “great joy” that Bihar is hosting the Men’s Hockey Asia Cup 2025. He added that the tournament will bring thrilling contests, showcase extraordinary skills, and create memories to inspire the next generation.
The Asia Cup begins Friday in Rajgir. Significantly, the opening coincides with National Sports Day, observed on the birth anniversary of hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand.
“I extend my best wishes to all the participating teams, players, officials and supporters across Asia,” Modi wrote on X. “Hockey has always held a special place in the hearts of millions across India and Asia. 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,” he said.
Hockey has always held a special place in the hearts of millions across India and Asia. 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.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 28, 2025
Bihar Emerges as a Sporting Hub
Moreover, Modi highlighted Bihar’s growing role in India’s sporting map. In recent years, the state has hosted major events such as the Khelo India Youth Games 2025, the Asia Rugby U20 Sevens Championship 2025, the ISTAF Sepaktakraw World Cup 2024, and the 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,” Modi said.
India Chases World Cup Spot
Furthermore, India, three-time Asia Cup champions, will aim to secure a direct berth in the Hockey World Cup by lifting the trophy. They will start their Pool A campaign against China on Friday. Japan and Kazakhstan are the other teams in the group.
Meanwhile, Pool B features defending champions South Korea, five-time winners of the tournament. They will compete against Malaysia, Bangladesh, and Chinese Taipei.
Notably, Kazakhstan return to the tournament after more than three decades. Additionally, Bangladesh entered the line-up after Pakistan and Oman withdrew. Pakistan opted out citing security concerns after India launched Operation Sindoor following the Pahalgam terror attack in April.
Road to the Final
As the format stands, the top two teams from each pool will move into the semifinals. Finally, the championship match will be played on September 7 in Rajgir.
For India, the stakes are high. The Asia Cup is not only about continental dominance but also about qualifying for the World Cup.
A Meaningful Beginning
Importantly, the tournament begins on National Sports Day, a day that honors hockey icon Major Dhyan Chand. Therefore, fans expect the Asia Cup in Rajgir to revive India’s hockey spirit while also showcasing Bihar’s rise as a global sporting hub.