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Hockey World Cup 2018: Pakistan to participate in Odisha tourney
Pakistan became the 13th team to qualify for the hockey World Cup in Bhubaneswar, Odisha from November 28-December 16, 2018
The Pakistan hockey team will participate in the Hockey World Cup to be hosted by India in Bhubaneswar, Odisha in November-December 2018. India last hosted the hockey World Cup in 2010.
Former champions Pakistan were the 13th team to qualify for the international hockey federation (FIH) event after favourable results at the EuroHockey Championships, with their seventh place finish at the Hockey World League semi-final in London proving good enough.
It is a welcome return to World Cup action for Pakistan, following their failure to qualify for the hockey World Cup 2014 in The Hague, Netherlands. They will be determined to make the most of their opportunity in Bhubaneswar.
Given the hostile political climate prevailing in Jammu & Kashmir, Pakistan’s participation looked in jeopardy but the green shirts will reportedly play in the November 28-December 16 event.
Pakistan men have an enviable record in World Cup competition, having lifted the trophy on a record four occasions as well as twice claiming the silver medal.
Pakistan were victorious at the 1971, 1978, 1982 and 1994 events, with their four titles being one more than three-time winners the Netherlands and Australia.
