Pakistan's World Cup Dream Hinges on One Match Against India, Says Samiullah Khan

Pakistan chief selector Samiullah Khan believes his side can hold arch-rivals India to a draw in their Hockey World Cup clash on August 19, describing that result as crucial to Pakistan's hopes of progressing beyond the group stage in Belgium and the Netherlands.

Pakistan on Wednesday announced a 20-member squad for the World Cup (August 15-30), marking the country's return to the tournament after an eight-year absence.

Samiullah identifies India vs Pakistan clash as key fixture

"Look, realistically the key is holding India at least to a draw and we have the capacity to beat Wales, but our toughest opponent is England who are ranked high while we are placed 12th right now in the FIH rankings," said Samiullah, a former Pakistan captain.

India, England and Wales make up Pool D alongside Pakistan. The Men in Green will begin their campaign against England in Amstelveen on August 15 before facing India four days later.

Foreign coaching staff to join squad in Netherlands

Samiullah also confirmed that team director and chief coach Herman Kruis will join the squad directly in the Netherlands, where he is currently on a pre-tournament assignment.

The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has also appointed two foreign coaches, Bob Johan Veldhof and Christopher Bowen, to assist Kruis during the World Cup.

According to Samiullah, the squad was selected jointly by the national selectors and the recently-appointed foreign coaching staff.

South Korea series boosts confidence

Samiullah said Pakistan's recent performances against South Korea in the ongoing home Test series have provided a timely confidence boost ahead of the World Cup.

Pakistan have already taken an unassailable 3-0 lead in the four-match series, with the chief selector backing the team to carry that momentum into the tournament.

with excerpts from PTI