FIH Men's Hockey World Cup 2026: Pakistan, India drawn in same pool

ISLAMABAD: The International Hockey Federation (FIH) has announced the pool draws for the Men's Hockey World Cup 2026, placing arch-rivals Pakistan and India in the same group.

Pakistan and India set for World Cup showdown

The much-anticipated draw has placed Pakistan and India together in the same pool for the upcoming FIH Men's Hockey World Cup 2026, setting the stage for a high-profile clash between the two South Asian hockey nations on the world's biggest stage.

Pakistan secured their spot in the tournament after defeating Japan in the semi-final of the Hockey World Cup Qualifiers, held at the SCA Hockey Stadium in Ismailia on March 6, 2026. The qualification was a significant achievement for the Green Shirts, who will now compete against the best teams in the world at the premier hockey event.

Pool stage details

The pool compositions for the Men's Hockey World Cup 2026 were officially revealed by the FIH. The draw has generated considerable excitement among hockey fans, particularly due to the Pakistan-India grouping, which is always one of the most watched fixtures in international hockey.

Both Pakistan and India have storied histories in the Hockey World Cup, and their placement in the same pool ensures at least one direct encounter during the group stage of the tournament.

Pakistan's road to the World Cup

Pakistan's journey to the World Cup came through the qualifiers route, where the team put in a commanding performance to book their place. Their semi-final victory over Japan in Ismailia was a key result that confirmed their participation in the global showpiece event.

The Green Shirts will be looking to make a strong impression at the World Cup, with the added motivation of facing their traditional rivals India in the pool stage. Hockey remains one of the most passionately followed sports in Pakistan, and the team's qualification and subsequent draw alongside India is expected to generate significant interest and excitement among fans across the country.

Further details regarding the complete pool compositions, match schedule, and venue information for the FIH Men's Hockey World Cup 2026 are expected to be released by the international federation in due course.