Hockey is set to make history in Bihar as the state prepares to host the 12th edition of the Men’s Asia Cup from August 29 to September 7, 2025, at the newly developed Rajgir Hockey Stadium in Nalanda. For the first time, the prestigious continental championship will be played on Bihar soil, and the excitement is already palpable.
On Sunday, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar unveiled the official mascot ‘Chand’ and the gleaming Asia Cup trophy in Patna, calling it a proud moment not just for the state but for Indian hockey as a whole.
“For the first time in Bihar, the Hero Asia Cup 2025 will be organised at the campus of the State Sports Academy-cum-Bihar Sports University, Rajgir, from August 29 to September 7. Such events are significant steps toward promoting sports culture in Bihar and encouraging young talents,” CM Kumar posted on X.
Eight Teams, One Trophy
The tournament will feature eight top teams from Asia – India, China, Japan, Chinese Taipei, Malaysia, Korea, Oman, and Bangladesh – all vying for continental supremacy. With defending champions Korea, former champions India, and fast-rising teams like Malaysia and Japan in the fray, fans can expect high-quality, competitive hockey throughout the 10-day event.
Why Rajgir Matters
The Rajgir Hockey Stadium is one of the latest additions to India’s sporting infrastructure. Nestled in the historic town of Nalanda, it promises to offer not just a state-of-the-art playing experience for athletes but also a festival-like atmosphere for hockey lovers in the region. Hosting a tournament of this magnitude is being seen as a turning point for Bihar’s sporting identity, which has long remained on the sidelines in Indian hockey.
Schedule Highlights – Men’s Asia Cup 2025
Schedule for Asia Cup Men’s Hockey in India announced | India, Japan, China, Kazakhstan in Pool A. Malaysia, Korea, Bangladesh and Chinese Taipei in Pool B. pic.twitter.com/AbPRu7ChLq
— ANI (@ANI) August 19, 2025
Building Momentum for Indian Hockey
For Indian hockey fans, the Asia Cup is more than just another tournament. It serves as a crucial platform ahead of global events, while also reviving old rivalries with the likes of Korea and Malaysia. With home advantage on their side, India will look to reclaim the trophy and add to their rich hockey legacy.
As Bihar readies itself for its biggest-ever hockey carnival, the Men’s Asia Cup 2025 promises not just thrilling competition but also a powerful reminder that hockey’s heartbeat runs deep across India, far beyond the traditional strongholds.