Hockey fans shift their focus, and wait for an Indo-Pak conflict

By Chetan SharmNew Delhi, November 22nd : .

Following Indias recent 10-wicket loss to Pakistan at the ICC T20 World Cup, Indian fans are eager for another match -- but on a new ground.

They also hope India has a chance to defeat their arch-rivals during the FIH Jr Hockey World Cup in Bhubaneswar, which begins on November 24.Fans began talking about an India-Pakistan match soon after the Pakistani junior hockey team arrived in Delhi on November 20.It will all depend on how the teams perform in their respective pools but theres no doubt that this has caused quite a stir in hockey circles.Expectations have been high every time India and Pakistan played hockey on each others turf.

This will be the same if and when the young teams face off at Bhubaneswars Kalinga Stadium.It will be an expensive event for the organizers.

It will be an opportunity to test your stamina, and stick-work against the other players.On November 24, South Africa and Belgium will face off in the Junior World Cup.The same day, Indias campaign against France will begin.The tournament features 16 teams from top nations.

Along with India, Canada and France are part of Pool B.Pakistan will have to face Germany, Egypt, and Argentina in Pool D.Pool A includes South Africa, Chile, Malaysia, and Belgium.Pool C is made up of South Korea, Spain, the Netherlands, Spain, and the United States.

Due to COVID-19 regulations, teams from Australia and New Zealand have pulled out.The tournaments competition has dropped slightly due to major teams withdrawing, but there has been renewed interest in an Indo-Pak match.The clash of arch-rivals can only be possible if each team advances from their groups.

That is only possible if the teams finish in the top two pools.If India or Pakistan achieve first- or second place in their pools respectively, they will be able to meet in semifinals or final.

Although it is difficult to foresee an India-Pakistan match, considering that other teams such as Germany, Argentina, Belgium, and the Netherlands will also be in action, there are still many sports possibilities.Fans would hope and pray for their favorite teams to win their pools.

Danish Kaleem, Pakistans head coach, stated that the tournament would help to increase popularity.The team of Pakistani players will not be able to attend the Lucknow edition 2016 junior World Cup.They are very happy to play in this tournament.Pakistani hockey is not as fortunate as cricket in that it has very limited opportunities to play abroad.

This is an opportunity that they wont want to pass up.Kaleem and his boys would love to see India clash.This event will also be important to India and Pakistan in order for them to create strong teams for next years Asian and Commonwealth Games and 2024 Paris Olympics.

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