Now Reading: No quarterfinals: New Hockey World Cup format tests India
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No quarterfinals: New Hockey World Cup format tests India
The men's and women's Hockey World Cup in Belgium and the Netherlands has a new format: no quarterfinals. The top two teams from each pool advance to a second group stage, and…
The Story in Brief
The men's and women's Hockey World Cup in Belgium and the Netherlands has a new format: no quarterfinals. The top two teams from each pool advance to a second group stage, and the head-to-head result between them carries forward. India men's coach Craig Fulton says starting well is critical. Women's coach Sjoerd Marijne prefers quarterfinals but will adapt. India men are favoured against Wales and Pakistan but face a tough match against England. The women have a harder pool with China and England, and likely face Netherlands and Australia later. The Indian team will wear saffron jerseys instead of the traditional blue for better visibility on the blue pitch, a move criticised by former players.
The Indian Opinion
The new format rewards early momentum, but losing the quarterfinal stage reduces knockout drama. The jersey controversy is overblown, visibility on a blue pitch matters more than tradition. India men should top their pool, but England will be a genuine test. For the women, the Asian Games remains the real target. Can they upset higher-ranked opponents in this unfamiliar structure?
Source: newindianexpress.com
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