‘Not tough’: Sreejesh’s blunt take on India-Pakistan Hockey World Cup clash
Former Indian hockey captain PR Sreejesh claims that the rivalry between India and Pakistan has lost its competitive edge due to India's significant improvements in fitness and tactical awareness. India now faces a crucial match against Pakistan in the Hockey World Cup, where a win is necessary to advance to the second round.
Why it matters
The shift in the competitive dynamic of this historic sporting rivalry reflects India's broader professionalization and growth in international field hockey.
NEW DELHI: India's Hockey World Cup campaign has reached a critical juncture, with arch-rivals Pakistan standing between Harmanpreet Singh's side and a place in the second round. Following India's 2-4 defeat to England, former captain PR Sreejesh believes the India-Pakistan rivalry no longer carries the same competitive edge it once did, with India's improvements in fitness, strength and decision-making changing the equation.India had led England 2-1 at half-time in their second Pool D match on Monday, with Harmanpreet and Dilpreet Singh finding the net. England, however, produced a strong second-half comeback to score three goals, leaving India needing a positive result against Pakistan on Wednesday. A win will guarantee India's place in the second round, while a defeat will end their campaign.Sreejesh: India-Pakistan matches have changedIndia began their campaign with a 3-1 win over Wales but now have three points from two games.
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