What must India do to keep their semi-final hopes alive in the Hockey World Cup?

India must win their upcoming match against Australia to have a chance of advancing to the semi-finals, while also hoping that the outcome of the Netherlands-China match favors them.

Why was the match between India and the Netherlands crucial for India's semi-final chances?

The match was crucial because India's loss to the Netherlands significantly diminished their qualification prospects, leaving them with limited options to advance in the tournament.

How can India qualify for the semi-finals if they draw against Australia?

If India draws against Australia, their qualification would depend heavily on the result of the Netherlands-China match, making it a precarious situation as they would have only two points.

Rahul Dravid, Steve Waugh and Abhishek Bachchan watch India-Netherlands hockey match

Rahul Dravid, Steve Waugh, and Bollywood celebrity Abhishek Bachchan witnessed the India-Netherlands FIH Hockey World Cup second round match.

Updated on: Aug 23, 2026, 19:07:16 IST

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Cricket greats Rahul Dravid and Steve Waugh and Bollywood celebrity Abhishek Bachchan on Saturday witnessed the India-Netherlands FIH Hockey World Cup second round match here.

Former Indian cricketer Rahul Dravid, centre, former Australian cricketer Steve Waugh. (PTI )

It is a must win match for India to keep their semifinal hopes alive as per the format of the tournament.

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The trio are in the Netherlands in connection with the European T20 Premier League (ETPL), which is aimed at promoting cricket in Europe. The league is beginning on August 26 with the match between Rotterdam Dockers and Amsterdam Flames at Voolburg.

ETPL co-founder Bachchan is also expected to interact with the Indian hockey players after the match at the Wagener stadium.

Catch all the Latest T20 World Cup 2024 news and Live Cricket Score along with World Cup 2024 Schedule and World Cup 2024 Points Table related updates on Hindustan Times Website and APPs.