The Indian hockey team will be meeting arch-rivals Pakistan in a crucial men’s Hockey World League (HWL) Semi-Final in London on 18 June 2017. The HWL Semi-Final is a qualifying event for the 2018 World Cup and will feature 10 of the world's best men's hockey teams.
Six teams have already been confirmed so far for this showcase event, including hosts England, Rio Olympic champions Argentina, reigning European champions Netherlands, Asian Champions India, Korea and Pakistan.
Another four teams will qualify from the Hockey World League Round 2 events which will take place between January and April next year.
The day that features India playing Pakistan has been dubbed ‘Super Sunday’ in the HWL Semi-Final. India had the edge during the 2016 Asian Champions Trophy, beating Pakistan 3-2 in a thrilling final in Malaysia, and Pakistan will be out for revenge in what will be an action-packed encounter.
Besides Pakistan, the other confirmed team in India's pool is Netherlands.
A lot is at stake for teams participating in these Hockey World League Semi-Finals. Vital FIH Hero World Ranking points will be awarded depending on final standings, and the top teams from each Semi-Final will qualify for the 2018 Hockey World Cups in India (men) and England (women), in addition to the Hockey World League Finals taking place in India (men) and New Zealand (women) later in 2017.
(At The Quint, we are answerable only to our audience. Play an active role in shaping our journalism by becoming a member. Because the truth is worth it.)