Hockey: India would face Pakistan in Champions Trophy's curtain raiser
What's the story
The Champions Trophy hockey tournament would kick off with a bang, as arch-rivals India and Pakistan are scheduled to lock horns in the tournament opener in Breda, Netherlands on June 23. The International Hockey Federation made this announcement on Thursday. The Champions Trophy will be held from June 23 to July 1.
High-octane fixtures
Opening day would have 3 fixtures
India vs Pakistan would be the curtain raiser of the tournament. Besides this high profile fixture, two other games will be played on the first day of the tournament. European champions Netherlands and 2016 Olympic gold medallists Argentina would also compete on the opening day. It would be followed by reigning world champions Australia taking on Rio Olympic silver medallists Belgium.
Arch-rivals
India will also open their CWG campaign against Pakistan
Before the Champions Trophy, India will be in action in the Commonwealth Games in Gold Coast, Australia. They have been grouped in Pool B with Pakistan, Malaysia, Wales and England. India will open their CWG campaign against Pakistan on April 7. India claimed silver after losing 1-3 to Australia in the previous edition (2016) of the Champions Trophy.