HWL Semi-Finals 2017: India, Pakistan clubbed in same pool

India, the current Asian champions, have been clubbed alongside arch-rivals Pakistan in the same pool in the men's Hockey World League (HWL) Semi-Finals 2017 to be held in London from June 15 to 25 June.

The Semi-Final, a qualifying event for the 2018 World Cup, will feature 10 of the world's best men's hockey teams.

Six teams have already been confirmed so far for this showcase event, including hosts England, Rio 2016 Olympic gold medallists Argentina, reigning European champions Netherlands, Asian champions India, Korea and Pakistan.

Another four teams will qualify from the Hockey World League Round 2 events taking place between January and April 2017.

In London, Sunday 18 June has been dubbed 'Super Sunday' and it is not difficult to see why. The first game of the day pairs Pakistan with India.

With 11 Olympic titles between them, this has historically been one of the fiercest rivalries in the game and it shows no sign of letting up. India had the edge at the 2016 QNET Asian Champions Trophy so Pakistan will be out for revenge in what will be an action-packed encounter.

India had won the inaugural edition in 2011 but finished runners-up to Pakistan in the second edition in 2012.