Pakistan and India have been drawn in the same pool for the upcoming FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup 2026, setting up a highly anticipated clash between the two traditional rivals in the group stage.
The tournament draw places both teams in Pool D, ensuring they will face each other early in the competition.
Pool D Line-Up Confirmed
Alongside Pakistan and India, Pool D also includes England and Wales, making it one of the more competitive groups in the tournament.
The event will feature 16 teams divided into four pools, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the next round.
The tournament is scheduled to be co-hosted by Belgium and the Netherlands later in 2026.
Pakistan Qualify After Strong Campaign
Pakistan secured its place in the World Cup after progressing through the qualification rounds, including a key victory over Japan in the semi-finals.
Their return to the World Cup marks a significant moment for the national team, which has been working to re-establish itself on the global hockey stage.
Historic Rivalry Adds to Excitement
The Pakistan-India hockey rivalry remains one of the most intense in international sport, with both teams sharing a long history of competitive encounters at major tournaments.
Their placement in the same group guarantees at least one high-profile match expected to draw significant attention from fans in both countries.
Tournament Format and Next Stage
After the initial pool stage, the top two teams from each group will move into a second round, followed by semi-finals and the final.
Officials are expected to release the full match schedule and fixtures in the coming days.
