Know all about Indian Men's Hockey Team's Asian Champions Trophy 2024 opponents Pakistan

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India and Pakistan will add another chapter to their historical hockey rivalry when they compete in the Asian Champions Trophy 2024 on Saturday (September 14) at the Moqi Hockey Training Base in Hulunbuir, People's Republic of China.

The much-anticipated hockey round-robin league match will begin at 1:15 PM IST on September 14th. Currently ranked 16 in the FIH rankings the Pakistan men's hockey team has a storied history in the sport, built on decades of dominance.

Established in 1948, Pakistan quickly rose to prominence and has been a vital part of the International Hockey Federation (FIH) ever since. Known for their flair, skill, and tactical sharpness, the team has etched its name in hockey history by winning four Hockey World Cup titles-in 1971, 1978, 1982, and 1994-making them the most successful team in the competition's history.

Pakistan's success isn't limited to the World Cup. On the Olympic stage, they claimed three gold medals in 1960, 1968, and 1984. The team also dominated the Asian Games, with eight gold medals in their name, the highest for any team in the competition.

Pakistan's impact on hockey in Asia is unparalleled, and they're also the only team from the continent to win the prestigious FIH Champions Trophy, having lifted it three times-most recently in 1994.

When it comes to the Asian Champions Trophy (ACT), Pakistan's men's hockey team has been one of the top contenders since the tournament began. Their performances in the ACT have been nothing short of remarkable, with Pakistan winning the gold medal three times-in 2012, 2013, and 2018. They have also finished as runners-up in 2011 and 2016.

Surprisingly, Pakistan hold the edge in the overall head-to-head record against India in men's hockey. Out of 180 matches played between the two rivals, Pakistan have won 82, while India have secured 66 victories. The remaining 32 matches have ended in draws or no results.

Despite this historical advantage, the balance of power has shifted in recent years. In their last encounter at the Asian Games 2023 , India thrashed Pakistan with a resounding 10-2 victory. Pakistan's most recent win against India came back in 2016, during the South Asian Games final.

When it comes to the Asian Champions Trophy, however, India have been far superior. India have won 7 out of 11 meetings between the two sides in this tournament, making them the clear favorites to extend that tally to 8 in their upcoming clash on Saturday. Additionally, India secured a comfortable 4-0 victory over their arch-rivals in the Asian Champions Trophy in Chennai.

Pakistan squad for Asian Champions Trophy: Butt Ammad (C), Abdul Rehman, Ahmad Ajaz, Ali Ghazanfar, Hammadudin Muhammad, Hayat Zikriya, Khan Abdullah Ishtiaq, Khan Sufyan, Liaqat Arshad, Mahmood Abu, Nadeem Ahmad, Qadir Faisal, Rana Waheed Ashraf, Razzaq Salman, Rooman, Shahid Hannan, Shakeel Moin, Ur-Rehman Muneeb.