The Men Hockey Asia Cup 2025 is returning this year with Rajgir in Bihar hosting the 12th edition from 29 August to 7 September. The event will act as a qualifier for the 2026 FIH World Cup, which makes every game crucial. Eight nations will compete across two pools, with India placed alongside China, Japan and Kazakhstan. Pool B features South Korea, Malaysia, Bangladesh and Chinese Taipei.
South Korea arrives as defending champion, having lifted the title five times in the past. India and Pakistan follow with three each, while Malaysia and Japan continue to push hard for their breakthrough moment. With a World Cup berth on the line, this edition promises tight contests and fierce rivalries.
Full Schedule
29 August
Malaysia v Bangladesh (Pool B)
Korea v Chinese Taipei (Pool B)
Japan v Kazakhstan (Pool A)
India v China (Pool A)
30 August
Bangladesh v Chinese Taipei (Pool B)
Korea v Malaysia (Pool B)
31 August
China v Kazakhstan (Pool A)
Japan v India (Pool A)
1 September
Bangladesh v Korea (Pool B)
Malaysia v Chinese Taipei (Pool B)
China v Japan (Pool A)
India v Kazakhstan (Pool A)
3 September
5/8th place match
Super 4s Pool match
Super 4s Pool match
4 September
5/8th place match
Super 4s Pool match
Super 4s Pool match
6 September
7/8th place match
Super 4s Pool match
Super 4s Pool match
7 September
5/6th place match
3/4th place match
Final
India will open its campaign against China on the very first day and then face Japan and Kazakhstan in quick succession. The top two sides from each pool will progress to the Super 4s, while the rest will fight for placement. The eventual champion secures a direct ticket to the World Cup, adding extra weight to every fixture.
For Rajgir, hosting this tournament is another milestone in Bihar’s rise as a sports venue. For players and fans alike, the Asia Cup is more than regional pride, it is the pathway to the biggest stage of hockey.
