Jalandhar: International hockey returns to Punjab after 17 years as the 9th Hero Men’s Asian Champions Trophy 2026 begins today at the Olympian Surjit Hockey Stadium in Jalandhar. The tournament will run from October 27 to November 5, with six teams competing for the title.
India will open its campaign against Bangladesh at 7:20 pm under floodlights. The opening ceremony will feature traditional Punjabi performances, including Bhangra, Giddha and Gatka.
Six Teams to Take Part
The tournament features six teams from across Asia:
- India
- Malaysia
- China
- Japan
- South Korea
- Bangladesh
Three matches will be played each day during the league stage, which runs in Jalandhar until November 2. On the opening day, Malaysia will face China, while Japan will take on South Korea in the other matches.
Pool Matches in Jalandhar, Semi-Finals and Final in Mohali
The pool-stage matches will be held at the Olympian Surjit Hockey Stadium in Jalandhar from October 27 to November 2. Hockey fans can visit the stadium and watch the matches live, as entry is free for spectators.
After the league stage, the tournament will move to the Olympian Balbir Singh Senior International Hockey Stadium in Mohali, where the semi-finals will be played on November 4 and the final on November 5. Entry will also be free for spectators at the Mohali venue.
Akashvani’s All India Radio channels, along with Jalandhar’s Primary Channel, will broadcast live commentary of matches involving India, as well as the semi-finals and final.
With India aiming to add another title to its record, fans will be hoping for a strong start from the home team as the tournament gets underway today.