Unusual as it may sound but China, for all its sporting culture, provinces and gargantuan size, had to pick all its 18 <a href="http://www.wionews.com/hockey-world-cup">hockey World Cup</a>-bound players from one province, the name of which sounds similar to that of its neighbouring country.&nbsp;

Very few people know that the country's entire 18-member men's hockey team belongs to just one province -&nbsp;Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. China is made up of 34 provinces.

China's men's hockey team is making its debut at the World Cup here and its best result in the sport to date is a silver medal finish at the 2006 Doha Asian Games.

What has caught the attention is that all the 18 players representing China in the ongoing World Cup hail from the Inner Mongolia province.

Hockey is not that popular in China. It is most common among the Daur people, who have been playing a traditional sport called 'Beikou', a game similar to field hockey, for about 1,000 years.

The modern game started in China in the mid-1970s.

"Yes, all players from the team are from Inner Mongolia. They all are from just one club and one province," China's South Korean coach Sang Ryul Kim told PTI.

Kim, who guided his own country South Korea to a silver medal in the 2000 Sydney Olympics and mentored China to beat India and Pakistan before claiming the Doha Asiad silver, has got a wealth of experience as a coach.

"Hockey is most popular in that region of China. Hockey is similar to a traditional sport of that region named 'Beikou', so these players have easily adapted to the game," he added.

China will make its World Cup debut against England in a Pool B match on Friday and the coach said his players have the capability to cause an upset or two in the tournament if they turn out on the turf without any fear.

"They have the fitness. They have the mental strength. The only problem with our players is that they have very less experience of playing against strong teams. That's the only weakness," Kim said.

"If they (Chinese players) are worried and doubtful on the pitch, they can't do anything. If they are confident, they can do something," he added.

Unusual as it may sound but China, for all its sporting culture, provinces and gargantuan size, had to pick all its 18 hockey World Cup-bound players from one province, the name of which sounds similar to that of its neighbouring country.

Unusual as it may sound but China, for all its sporting culture, provinces and gargantuan size, had to pick all its 18 hockey World Cup-bound players from one province, the name of which sounds similar to that of its neighbouring country. Very few people know that the country's entire 18-member men's hockey team belongs to just one province - Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. China is made up of 34 provinces. China's men's hockey team is making its debut at the World Cup here and its best result in the sport to date is a silver medal finish at the 2006 Doha Asian Games. What has caught the attention is that all the 18 players representing China in the ongoing World Cup hail from the Inner Mongolia province. Hockey is not that popular in China. It is most common among the Daur people, who have been playing a traditional sport called 'Beikou', a game similar to field hockey, for about 1,000 years. The modern game started in China in the mid-1970s. "Yes, all players from the team are from Inner Mongolia. They all are from just one club and one province," China's South Korean coach Sang Ryul Kim told PTI. Kim, who guided his own country South Korea to a silver medal in the 2000 Sydney Olympics and mentored China to beat India and Pakistan before claiming the Doha Asiad silver, has got a wealth of experience as a coach. "Hockey is most popular in that region of China. Hockey is similar to a traditional sport of that region named 'Beikou', so these players have easily adapted to the game," he added. China will make its World Cup debut against England in a Pool B match on Friday and the coach said his players have the capability to cause an upset or two in the tournament if they turn out on the turf without any fear. "They have the fitness. They have the mental strength. The only problem with our players is that they have very less experience of playing against strong teams. That's the only weakness," Kim said. "If they (Chinese players) are worried and doubtful on the pitch, they can't do anything. If they are confident, they can do something," he added.

China's World Cup team is made up of 18 players from one province

New Zealand defeated France 2-1 in a tight Pool A clash to open their World Cup campaign with a hard-fought victory at the Kalinga Stadium on Thursday.

Kane Russell scored for New Zealand in the 17th minute to give his team a 1-0 lead which was fursther extended by Stephen Jenness. He powered the ball home to extend the lead 2-0 in the fourth and final quarter with a controlled long pass.

Jenness was given player of the match for his crucial contribution to New Zealand's victory.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/mens-hockey-world-cup-2018-schedule-squad-time-and-venue-177870">Men's Hockey World Cup 2018: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue</a>

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It seemed France wouldn't be able to open its account but in the concluding minutes, France earned a penalty corner and converted it but that was not enough, as the final score was 2-1.\

As it happened&nbsp;| <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/live-hockey-world-cup-2018-new-zealand-vs-france-180247">New Zealand vs France</a>

In the other match of Pool A, Olympic champions Argentina were made to dig deep to eke out a 4-3 win over Spain.

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France, making an appearance in the Men's Hockey World Cup after 28 years, will next meet Spain on December 6.

New Zealand defeated France 2-1 in a tight Pool A clash to open their World Cup campaign with a hard-fought victory at the Kalinga Stadium on Thursday. Kane Russell scored for New Zealand in the 17th minute to give his team a 1-0 lead which was fursther extended by Stephen Jenness.

New Zealand defeated France 2-1 in a tight Pool A clash to open their World Cup campaign with a hard-fought victory at the Kalinga Stadium on Thursday. Kane Russell scored for New Zealand in the 17th minute to give his team a 1-0 lead which was fursther extended by Stephen Jenness. He powered the ball home to extend the lead 2-0 in the fourth and final quarter with a controlled long pass. Jenness was given player of the match for his crucial contribution to New Zealand's victory. Also Read | Men's Hockey World Cup 2018: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue 🏑 | POTM | @StephenJenness | @BlackSticks #HWC2018 #Odisha2018 🇳🇿 #NZLvFRA 🇫🇷 pic.twitter.com/ukmLuVp4Cq — Hockey World Cup 2018 - Host Partner (@sports_odisha) November 29, 2018 × It seemed France wouldn't be able to open its account but in the concluding minutes, France earned a penalty corner and converted it but that was not enough, as the final score was 2-1.\ As it happened | New Zealand vs France In the other match of Pool A, Olympic champions Argentina were made to dig deep to eke out a 4-3 win over Spain. 🏆 | It is @ArgFieldHockey who top the pool on the second day of Odisha Hockey Men’s World Cup Bhubaneswar 2018.#HWC2018 #Odisha2018 pic.twitter.com/XbW16Wd8CH — Hockey World Cup 2018 - Host Partner (@sports_odisha) November 29, 2018 × France, making an appearance in the Men's Hockey World Cup after 28 years, will next meet Spain on December 6.

Hockey World Cup 2018: New Zealand defeat France 2-1

Agustin Mazzilli and Gonzalo Peillat scored a brace each but Olympic champions Argentina were made to dig deep to eke out a 4-3 win over Spain in their Pool A match of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/hockey-world-cup">hockey World Cup </a>here Thursday.&nbsp;

Six places may separate the two teams in world rankings but world number eight Spain gave Argentina, ranked second, a run for their money in the high-scoring match that produced end-to-end hockey.&nbsp;

The Los Leones had to dish out every trick from their arsenal to get the better of a fighting Spanish side, which matched their rivals in every department throughout.&nbsp;

Spain stunned the Argentines as early as in the third minute through young Enrique Gonzalez's fine field strike past Argentina goalkeeper Juan Vivaldi from a move which he only initiated.&nbsp;

But a minute later, Mazzilli drew level for Argentina, deflecting in a cross from the right wing past Spain's goalkeeper Quico Cortes.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/mens-hockey-world-cup-2018-schedule-squad-time-and-venue-177870">Men's Hockey World Cup 2018: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venu</a>

Spain restored their lead in the 14th minute through a penalty corner conversion by Josep Romeu.&nbsp;

It was end-to-end battle as Mazzilli (15th minute) again came to Argentina's rescue, equalising 45 seconds from the first quarter after receiving a pass from Lucas Villa on the left side.&nbsp;

Just seconds away from the first break of the match, Argentina scored again when drag-flick specialist Peillat converted a penalty corner with precision to hand his side the lead for the first time in the game.&nbsp;

Both the teams played with same intensity and pace in the second quarter but failed to find the net.

As it happened | <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/live-hockey-world-cup-2018-argentina-vs-spain-180232">Argentina 4-3 Spain</a>

Five minutes after the change of ends, Spain equalised through Vicenc Ruiz's (35th) field strike.&nbsp;

The match went on similar lines in the fourth and final quarter with both Argentina and Spain pressing hard for more goals to secure full three points.&nbsp;

But it were the Argentines who succeeded in their effort when Peillatwas was again bang on target from another penalty corner in the 49th minute.&nbsp;

Thereafter, Spain dished out all the tricks, including withdrawing their goalkeeper for an extra player four minutes from the final hooter, but failed to breach the Argentina defence.&nbsp;

Argentina will play New Zealand in their next pool match on December 3, while Spain will be up against France.&nbsp;

Agustin Mazzilli and Gonzalo Peillat scored a brace each but Olympic champions Argentina were made to dig deep to eke out a 4-3 win over Spain in their Pool A match of the hockey World Cup here Thursday.

Agustin Mazzilli and Gonzalo Peillat scored a brace each but Olympic champions Argentina were made to dig deep to eke out a 4-3 win over Spain in their Pool A match of the hockey World Cup here Thursday. Six places may separate the two teams in world rankings but world number eight Spain gave Argentina, ranked second, a run for their money in the high-scoring match that produced end-to-end hockey. The Los Leones had to dish out every trick from their arsenal to get the better of a fighting Spanish side, which matched their rivals in every department throughout. Spain stunned the Argentines as early as in the third minute through young Enrique Gonzalez's fine field strike past Argentina goalkeeper Juan Vivaldi from a move which he only initiated. But a minute later, Mazzilli drew level for Argentina, deflecting in a cross from the right wing past Spain's goalkeeper Quico Cortes. Also Read | Men's Hockey World Cup 2018: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venu Spain restored their lead in the 14th minute through a penalty corner conversion by Josep Romeu. It was end-to-end battle as Mazzilli (15th minute) again came to Argentina's rescue, equalising 45 seconds from the first quarter after receiving a pass from Lucas Villa on the left side. Just seconds away from the first break of the match, Argentina scored again when drag-flick specialist Peillat converted a penalty corner with precision to hand his side the lead for the first time in the game. Both the teams played with same intensity and pace in the second quarter but failed to find the net. As it happened | Argentina 4-3 Spain Five minutes after the change of ends, Spain equalised through Vicenc Ruiz's (35th) field strike. The match went on similar lines in the fourth and final quarter with both Argentina and Spain pressing hard for more goals to secure full three points. But it were the Argentines who succeeded in their effort when Peillatwas was again bang on target from another penalty corner in the 49th minute. Thereafter, Spain dished out all the tricks, including withdrawing their goalkeeper for an extra player four minutes from the final hooter, but failed to breach the Argentina defence. Argentina will play New Zealand in their next pool match on December 3, while Spain will be up against France.

Olympic champions Argentina defeat Spain 4-3

In out-and-out striker, Akashdeep Singh excelled in the role of a linkman in India's hockey World Cup opener against South Africa and chief coach Harendra Singh on Wednesday said the forward was used in a new position because of his terrific peripheral vision.&nbsp;

Akashdeep impressed all and sundry in his new role as linkman by not only setting up a goal for Lalit Upadhyay but also scoring one in I<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/hockey-world-cup-thrilling-start-for-india-as-they-vanquish-south-africa-5-0-180085">ndia's 5-0 </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/hockey-world-cup-thrilling-start-for-india-as-they-vanquish-south-africa-5-0-180085">rout</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/hockey-world-cup-thrilling-start-for-india-as-they-vanquish-south-africa-5-0-180085"> of South Africa</a> in their Pool C opener.&nbsp;

Asked about Akashdeep's performance, Harendra said: "He (Akashdeep) has very good peripheral vision and so we used him little down from his usual position as linkman. He is lethal as a linkman and we have three strikers floating inside the circle.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-hockey-special-shah-rukh-and-indias-coach-harendra-singh-played-together-in-school-tournaments-179842">Shah Rukh and India's coach Harendra Singh played together in school tournaments</a>

"If you go back 15 years, Dhanraj (Pillay) changed his role from the 2002 World Cup. He became a playmaker and Deepak (Thakur) and Prabhjot (Singh) scored. I am very happy with Akash. He is taking the lead. In every department we have a leader. I hope we continue that way throughout the tournament," the visibly delighted coach added.

Harendra said keeping a clean slate was the most positive outcome from Wednesday's game.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/mens-hockey-world-cup-2018-schedule-squad-time-and-venue-177870">Men's Hockey World Cup 2018: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue</a>

"The match sheet, which is clean, is a positive sign. It means defence, i.e. All 11 for them, played well. They came out and snatched the ball at the right moment, didn't throw their sticks," he said.

India got five penalty corners on Wednesday but failed to score a single goal with a direct shot.

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/HarendraSingh66?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HarendraSingh66</a> explains how due to the demand of the game he has changed the role of <a href="https://twitter.com/akashdeeps985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@akashdeeps985</a> in time. He expressed how he's now playing as a link man and creating more chances for the team. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvRSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvRSA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaKaGame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaKaGame</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DilHockey?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DilHockey</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HWC2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HWC2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/1pRLfTNk4W">pic.twitter.com/1pRLfTNk4W</a>
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"What matters for me is to score goals from penalty corners, it may come via direct shot or any other way and we did score twice from penalty corners today," he said.

Harendra admitted that after an impressive first half, India were a bit complacent in the third quarter, which allowed South Africa to create a few chances.&nbsp;

"I think during third quarter somewhere we were a little bit complacent," he said.

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"The moment they were 2-0 down, they pulled one of their back three up to an extra midfielder. But we regrouped well (after surviving those chances). They were smelling one goal. But we didn't let that happen."&nbsp;

South Africa coach Mark Hokins was obviously disappointed with the outcome of the match.&nbsp;

"I am disappointed with the result. We didn't execute our plans. The difference in this level is to take your chances. We didn't and they (India) did. We need to take key moments in the game," he said.

In out-and-out striker, Akashdeep Singh excelled in the role of a linkman in India's hockey World Cup opener against South Africa and chief coach Harendra Singh on Wednesday said the forward was used in a new position because of his terrific peripheral vision.

In out-and-out striker, Akashdeep Singh excelled in the role of a linkman in India's hockey World Cup opener against South Africa and chief coach Harendra Singh on Wednesday said the forward was used in a new position because of his terrific peripheral vision. Akashdeep impressed all and sundry in his new role as linkman by not only setting up a goal for Lalit Upadhyay but also scoring one in India's 5-0 rout of South Africa in their Pool C opener. Asked about Akashdeep's performance, Harendra said: "He (Akashdeep) has very good peripheral vision and so we used him little down from his usual position as linkman. He is lethal as a linkman and we have three strikers floating inside the circle. Also Read | Shah Rukh and India's coach Harendra Singh played together in school tournaments "If you go back 15 years, Dhanraj (Pillay) changed his role from the 2002 World Cup. He became a playmaker and Deepak (Thakur) and Prabhjot (Singh) scored. I am very happy with Akash. He is taking the lead. In every department we have a leader. I hope we continue that way throughout the tournament," the visibly delighted coach added. Harendra said keeping a clean slate was the most positive outcome from Wednesday's game. Also Read | Men's Hockey World Cup 2018: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue "The match sheet, which is clean, is a positive sign. It means defence, i.e. All 11 for them, played well. They came out and snatched the ball at the right moment, didn't throw their sticks," he said. India got five penalty corners on Wednesday but failed to score a single goal with a direct shot. .@HarendraSingh66 explains how due to the demand of the game he has changed the role of @akashdeeps985 in time. He expressed how he's now playing as a link man and creating more chances for the team. #INDvRSA #IndiaKaGame #DilHockey #HWC2018 pic.twitter.com/1pRLfTNk4W — Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) November 28, 2018 × "What matters for me is to score goals from penalty corners, it may come via direct shot or any other way and we did score twice from penalty corners today," he said. Harendra admitted that after an impressive first half, India were a bit complacent in the third quarter, which allowed South Africa to create a few chances. "I think during third quarter somewhere we were a little bit complacent," he said. "India would look to express themselves on the field and would make the best of the chances which they'll be dealt with," says coach @HarendraSingh66 after India beats South Africa 5-0.#DilHockey #HWC2018 #DilHockey #INDvRSA pic.twitter.com/SZtlwI9LIe — Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) November 28, 2018 × "The moment they were 2-0 down, they pulled one of their back three up to an extra midfielder. But we regrouped well (after surviving those chances). They were smelling one goal. But we didn't let that happen." South Africa coach Mark Hokins was obviously disappointed with the outcome of the match. "I am disappointed with the result. We didn't execute our plans. The difference in this level is to take your chances. We didn't and they (India) did. We need to take key moments in the game," he said.

India's hockey coach explains how Akashdeep proved lethal in new role of linkman

Manpreet Singh-led India registered an outstanding victory against South Africa&nbsp;in their opener clash of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/hockey-world-cup">2018 Hockey World Cup</a>.

With the help of three field goals and two penalty corners, India defeated South Africa 5-0 in the second match of the evening.

Team India are seeking&nbsp;to end 43-year-long medal drought in the 14th edition of Men's Hockey World Cup at the Kalinga Stadium.&nbsp;

Eight-time Olympic champions India's only glory at the World Cup came way back in 1975 when Ajit Pal Singh and his men's created history for the past masters of the game.&nbsp;

Since then India has failed to match the standards of the Europeans - Netherlands, Germany - and Australia, who have been ruling the game for over four decades now.&nbsp;

In the last 10 editions since its maiden triumph in 1975, India's best performance was a fifth-place finish at the 1982 edition in Mumbai (then Bombay).&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/mens-hockey-world-cup-2018-schedule-squad-time-and-venue-177870">Men's Hockey World Cup 2018: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue</a>

Simaranjeet Singh was awarded player of the match for scoring two crucial goals.

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Mandeep Singh, Akashdeep Singh and Lalit Upadhyay were the other goal scorers.

As it happened | <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/live-hockey-world-cup-2018-india-vs-south-africa-180030">India 5-0 South Africa</a>

'The wall of Indian hockey team', PR Sreejesh, might not have played his most difficult match today but the job is not done yet, bigger challenges are standing on the way as India will next face world number three Belgium in their second pool match on December 2.

Manpreet Singh-led India registered an outstanding victory against South Africa in their opener clash of 2018 Hockey World Cup. With the help of three field goals and two penalty corners, India defeated South Africa 5-0 in the second match of the evening.

Manpreet Singh-led India registered an outstanding victory against South Africa in their opener clash of 2018 Hockey World Cup. With the help of three field goals and two penalty corners, India defeated South Africa 5-0 in the second match of the evening. Team India are seeking to end 43-year-long medal drought in the 14th edition of Men's Hockey World Cup at the Kalinga Stadium. Eight-time Olympic champions India's only glory at the World Cup came way back in 1975 when Ajit Pal Singh and his men's created history for the past masters of the game. Since then India has failed to match the standards of the Europeans - Netherlands, Germany - and Australia, who have been ruling the game for over four decades now. In the last 10 editions since its maiden triumph in 1975, India's best performance was a fifth-place finish at the 1982 edition in Mumbai (then Bombay). Also Read | Men's Hockey World Cup 2018: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue Simaranjeet Singh was awarded player of the match for scoring two crucial goals. 🏑 | POTM | Simranjeet Singh | @TheHockeyIndia#HWC2018 #Odisha2018 🇮🇳 #INDvRSA 🇿🇦 pic.twitter.com/IBMTc2twEy — Hockey World Cup 2018 - Host Partner (@sports_odisha) 28 November 2018 × Mandeep Singh, Akashdeep Singh and Lalit Upadhyay were the other goal scorers. As it happened | India 5-0 South Africa 'The wall of Indian hockey team', PR Sreejesh, might not have played his most difficult match today but the job is not done yet, bigger challenges are standing on the way as India will next face world number three Belgium in their second pool match on December 2.

Hockey World Cup: Thrilling start as India vanquish South Africa

Belgium defeated Canada 2-1 in the first match of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/hockey-world-cup">Men's Hockey World Cup 2018</a> on Wednesday.

The Olympic silver medallist Belgium's created the pressure in the first quarter itself through a fine field strike by Felix Denayer in the third minute of the game.

In the second quarter, they did not only saved a penalty corner but also scored again, extending the lead to 2-0.

In the 12th minute, captain Thomas Briels found the back of the net again for Belgium but the goal was disallowed after Canada went for the referral, claiming the ball hit his hand before rolling on to the goal.&nbsp;

As it happened | <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/hockey-world-cup-2018-belgium-vs-canada-180008">Belgium vs Canada</a>

However, he scored with a brilliant strike after he was set up by Arthur van Doren.&nbsp;

Doren was awarded player of the match for his overall performance during the match.

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🏑 | POTM | <a href="https://twitter.com/ArthurVDoren?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ArthurVDoren</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/BELRedLions?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BELRedLions</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HWC2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HWC2018</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Odisha2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Odisha2018</a> 
🇧🇪 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BELvCAN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BELvCAN</a> 🇨🇦 <a href="https://t.co/Iv4tTPkdX4">pic.twitter.com/Iv4tTPkdX4</a>
— Hockey World Cup 2018 - Host Partner (@sports_odisha) <a href="https://twitter.com/sports_odisha/status/1067767567823986688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">28 November 2018</a></blockquote>
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Belgium completely dominated the first two quarters as Canada hardly managed to get a shot at the opposition goal.&nbsp;

But they failed to keep up the momentum as after the halftime, Canada started to find their grip on the match. &nbsp;

They fought brilliantly to pull a goal back through Mark Pearson's penalty corner conversion in the 48th minute.&nbsp;

It was far from an ideal start for Belgium as they wasted as many as four penalty corners in the match, a fact which their captain Thomas Briels accepted.&nbsp;

"We played a very good first half. We started positively and dominated but Canada came back strongly after halftime to give us some tough time," Briels said.&nbsp;

Belgium will next face hosts India on December 2 while Canada will be up against South Africa.&nbsp;

Belgium defeated Canada 2-1 in the first match of Men's Hockey World Cup 2018 on Wednesday. The Olympic silver medallist Belgium's created the pressure in the first quarter itself through a fine field strike by Felix Denayer in the third minute of the game.

Belgium defeated Canada 2-1 in the first match of Men's Hockey World Cup 2018 on Wednesday. The Olympic silver medallist Belgium's created the pressure in the first quarter itself through a fine field strike by Felix Denayer in the third minute of the game. In the second quarter, they did not only saved a penalty corner but also scored again, extending the lead to 2-0. In the 12th minute, captain Thomas Briels found the back of the net again for Belgium but the goal was disallowed after Canada went for the referral, claiming the ball hit his hand before rolling on to the goal. As it happened | Belgium vs Canada However, he scored with a brilliant strike after he was set up by Arthur van Doren. Doren was awarded player of the match for his overall performance during the match. 🏑 | POTM | @ArthurVDoren | @BELRedLions#HWC2018 #Odisha2018 🇧🇪 #BELvCAN 🇨🇦 pic.twitter.com/Iv4tTPkdX4 — Hockey World Cup 2018 - Host Partner (@sports_odisha) 28 November 2018 × Belgium completely dominated the first two quarters as Canada hardly managed to get a shot at the opposition goal. But they failed to keep up the momentum as after the halftime, Canada started to find their grip on the match. They fought brilliantly to pull a goal back through Mark Pearson's penalty corner conversion in the 48th minute. It was far from an ideal start for Belgium as they wasted as many as four penalty corners in the match, a fact which their captain Thomas Briels accepted. "We played a very good first half. We started positively and dominated but Canada came back strongly after halftime to give us some tough time," Briels said. Belgium will next face hosts India on December 2 while Canada will be up against South Africa.

Belgium cruise past Canada 2-1 in hockey World Cup opener

Standing on the cusp of creating history, two-time defending champions Australia are keen to put up a good show at the ongoing <a href="http://www.wionews.com/hockey-world-cup">hockey World Cup</a> to ensure an uninterrupted flow of funds from its government till the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

Aiming to win a rare hat-trick of titles, Australia chief coach Colin Batch said a disastrous outing here could seriously affect its preparations for the Tokyo Olympics as its government may not release additional funds.

By virtue of the national team's impressive performances over the years, which includes back-to-back world titles in 2010 and 2014 besides the Champions Trophy and Commonwealth Games gold earlier this year, hockey is one of sports identified by the Australian government to get additional funding till the 2020 Olympics.

"It's very important that we continue to get the funding. Of course, it's linked to our performance. It was good to have the funding consolidated right till Tokyo 2020. The team has earned that with their performances over the last two years. It has given a lot of encouragement," Batch said at the Kalinga Stadium here ahead of his side's World Cup opener against Ireland on Friday.

"We would like to perform well here, because then the players will get more funding as well. They know that, so it goes on. If we are knocked out in the early part of the tournament here, then that can affect our funding. So, it's very important to play well here and be successful," he added.

Being the two-time defending champions, there is pressure on Australia to become first hockey playing nation to win a hat-trick of World Cup crowns, but the coach said they are taking it as a challenge.

"The Aussie group has a proud history. We are defending our title here and we are looking it as a challenge. That's our approach,? Batch said.

Australia's last success on Indian soil was when they won the Hockey World League (HWL) Final here last year and Batch said the Kookaburras drew heart from that campaign.

"We continued to improve during the tournament (HWL Final). We could not win a game in the group stage but we drew three games against quality opposition. We made it to the quarterfinals and our hockey improved significantly from there," he said, summing up Australia's showing in the HWL Final.

"We have got some belief from that tournament that we can continue to improve at whatever level we start at. Earlier this year we have got some success in the Commonwealth Games and the Champions Trophy. Each tournament creates different obstacles."

Talking about hosts India, Batch said India have already earned back its respect in world hockey with their upward rise in the recent years.

"They (India) have improved. We have played them at the Champions Trophy and that was the best Indian team we had seen for a while," the Aussie coach said.

"I think they will play well here, but again the best teams will play consistently right through the tournament. There will be pressure on India for sure, but they have a good team. I think everyone in world hockey respects them enormously."

Australia's co-captain Aran Zalewski too agreed with his coach and said they were taking the tournament as a challenge.

"It's great that Australia has such a proud history in World Cups. We have taken experiences from the past but this is completely different group. We have now got 10 guys making their debut at World Cup," he said.

"For us as a team this is our first real chance of winning a World Cup as a group. We are not taking it as pressure but as a challenge."

Standing on the cusp of creating history, two-time defending champions Australia are keen to put up a good show at the ongoing hockey World Cup to ensure an uninterrupted flow of funds from its government till the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

Standing on the cusp of creating history, two-time defending champions Australia are keen to put up a good show at the ongoing hockey World Cup to ensure an uninterrupted flow of funds from its government till the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Aiming to win a rare hat-trick of titles, Australia chief coach Colin Batch said a disastrous outing here could seriously affect its preparations for the Tokyo Olympics as its government may not release additional funds. By virtue of the national team's impressive performances over the years, which includes back-to-back world titles in 2010 and 2014 besides the Champions Trophy and Commonwealth Games gold earlier this year, hockey is one of sports identified by the Australian government to get additional funding till the 2020 Olympics. "It's very important that we continue to get the funding. Of course, it's linked to our performance. It was good to have the funding consolidated right till Tokyo 2020. The team has earned that with their performances over the last two years. It has given a lot of encouragement," Batch said at the Kalinga Stadium here ahead of his side's World Cup opener against Ireland on Friday. "We would like to perform well here, because then the players will get more funding as well. They know that, so it goes on. If we are knocked out in the early part of the tournament here, then that can affect our funding. So, it's very important to play well here and be successful," he added. Being the two-time defending champions, there is pressure on Australia to become first hockey playing nation to win a hat-trick of World Cup crowns, but the coach said they are taking it as a challenge. "The Aussie group has a proud history. We are defending our title here and we are looking it as a challenge. That's our approach,? Batch said. Australia's last success on Indian soil was when they won the Hockey World League (HWL) Final here last year and Batch said the Kookaburras drew heart from that campaign. "We continued to improve during the tournament (HWL Final). We could not win a game in the group stage but we drew three games against quality opposition. We made it to the quarterfinals and our hockey improved significantly from there," he said, summing up Australia's showing in the HWL Final. "We have got some belief from that tournament that we can continue to improve at whatever level we start at. Earlier this year we have got some success in the Commonwealth Games and the Champions Trophy. Each tournament creates different obstacles." Talking about hosts India, Batch said India have already earned back its respect in world hockey with their upward rise in the recent years. "They (India) have improved. We have played them at the Champions Trophy and that was the best Indian team we had seen for a while," the Aussie coach said. "I think they will play well here, but again the best teams will play consistently right through the tournament. There will be pressure on India for sure, but they have a good team. I think everyone in world hockey respects them enormously." Australia's co-captain Aran Zalewski too agreed with his coach and said they were taking the tournament as a challenge. "It's great that Australia has such a proud history in World Cups. We have taken experiences from the past but this is completely different group. We have now got 10 guys making their debut at World Cup," he said. "For us as a team this is our first real chance of winning a World Cup as a group. We are not taking it as pressure but as a challenge."

Title-holders Australia eyeing another good World Cup show

Not amongst the favourites to lift the trophy, South Africa players have paid from their own pockets to just be a part of the men's <a href="http://www.wionews.com/hockey-world-cup">hockey World Cup</a> beginning here on Wednesday.&nbsp;

World number 15 South Africa coach Mark Hopkins said the biggest hurdle for the growth of the game in South Africa is "funding".&nbsp;

"The more hockey South Africa plays the better it is. But our challenge is to get the funding in place to allow us to compete in as many Test matches we possibly can," Hopkins told PTI on the eve of his side's opener against hosts India.&nbsp;

"We are coming into the World Cup with players needing to pay from their own pocket. They paid to be part of the camps. Our challenge is to get the funding in place. We are lucky to have a few sponsors but the sponsorships we have don't really cover the budget of the World Cup.&nbsp;

"We currently have a shortfall at the moment and if we don't get to cover that shortfall, then there is a possibility the players might also have to pay for the World Cup trip," he added.&nbsp;

With world ranked fifth India at the other end in their first match, South Africa have a tough task at hand but Hopkins is looking at the positives.&nbsp;

"Every game at the World Cup is a big match. You try to start the tournament as well as you can. It's exciting that we are playing our first match against the host nation. We will go into the game fairly confident. We feel we have the squad, skill set and tactics to play really good hockey and get results from the match," he said.&nbsp;

"I think the pressure is on both sides. Being the host nation there is more pressure on India than us. We will just go out there and play the brand of hockey that is successful for us."&nbsp;

Hopkins said his side's goal coming into the tournament is to be become the most successful South African hockey-playing nation in the history of the World Cup.&nbsp;

"We are a proud sporting nation and as a group we are looking to create history. The goal for us is to finish the tournament as the most successful South African hockey team in the men's World Cup," he said.&nbsp;

"We probably are a team that opposition has seen less videos off. People know less about our players because we don't play much in the European leagues or Test matches than other nations. That is an advantage for us," Hopkins added.&nbsp;

Not amongst the favourites to lift the trophy, South Africa players have paid from their own pockets to just be a part of the men's hockey World Cup beginning here on Wednesday.

Not amongst the favourites to lift the trophy, South Africa players have paid from their own pockets to just be a part of the men's hockey World Cup beginning here on Wednesday. World number 15 South Africa coach Mark Hopkins said the biggest hurdle for the growth of the game in South Africa is "funding". "The more hockey South Africa plays the better it is. But our challenge is to get the funding in place to allow us to compete in as many Test matches we possibly can," Hopkins told PTI on the eve of his side's opener against hosts India. "We are coming into the World Cup with players needing to pay from their own pocket. They paid to be part of the camps. Our challenge is to get the funding in place. We are lucky to have a few sponsors but the sponsorships we have don't really cover the budget of the World Cup. "We currently have a shortfall at the moment and if we don't get to cover that shortfall, then there is a possibility the players might also have to pay for the World Cup trip," he added. With world ranked fifth India at the other end in their first match, South Africa have a tough task at hand but Hopkins is looking at the positives. "Every game at the World Cup is a big match. You try to start the tournament as well as you can. It's exciting that we are playing our first match against the host nation. We will go into the game fairly confident. We feel we have the squad, skill set and tactics to play really good hockey and get results from the match," he said. "I think the pressure is on both sides. Being the host nation there is more pressure on India than us. We will just go out there and play the brand of hockey that is successful for us." Hopkins said his side's goal coming into the tournament is to be become the most successful South African hockey-playing nation in the history of the World Cup. "We are a proud sporting nation and as a group we are looking to create history. The goal for us is to finish the tournament as the most successful South African hockey team in the men's World Cup," he said. "We probably are a team that opposition has seen less videos off. People know less about our players because we don't play much in the European leagues or Test matches than other nations. That is an advantage for us," Hopkins added.

Despite funding ordeal, South African players look to create history

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/hockey-world-cup">Hockey World Cup</a> has kick-started with a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/hockey-world-cup-2018-opening-ceremony-live-179778">grand opening ceremony</a> at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneshwar.&nbsp;

Apart from the teams of the 16 participating nations, the event saw film stars Shah Rukh Khan, Madhuri Dixit and music director AR Rahman enthral the audience with their performances.

Shah Rukh recreated his Chak De! India dialogues as he recalled his connection with national sport and said &nbsp;"I did play a little bit of hockey in school and college. I used to play as a centre-forward, and right opposite me was obviously a goalkeeper,".

There is one more connection between Shah Rukh and hockey that is present coach of Indian field hockey Harendra Singh.

Harendra Singh and Shah Rukh have played in together in school hockey tournaments of Delhi.

Shahrukh Khan was the centre-forward of St. Columba's team and Harendra Singh was a goalkeeper and forward for Union Academy school.

"Shah Rukh used to come at Hanuman Temple, Connaught Place after school and stay with Pandit Jugal Kishor Sharma house. He was St&nbsp;Columbus student and I was with Union Academy School," revealed Harendra Singh.

Today at the opening ceremony India's reel life and real hockey coaches were present together once again.

Harendra expressed confidence that his young side in which seven out of 18 players are from the junior World Cup squad.

Conceding last-minute goals has been India's perennial problem in the last few years but Harendra said it' is with all hockey playing nations.

"We always discuss India concede a last-minute goal to lose. It has happened in the last 4-5 years, including the Asian Games. But that doesn't only happen with the Indian team. I can give you history where other teams also have lost the same way," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Hockey World Cup has kick-started with a grand opening ceremony at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneshwar. Apart from the teams of the 16 participating nations, the event saw film stars Shah Rukh Khan, Madhuri Dixit and music director AR Rahman enthral the audience with their performances.

The Hockey World Cup has kick-started with a grand opening ceremony at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneshwar. Apart from the teams of the 16 participating nations, the event saw film stars Shah Rukh Khan, Madhuri Dixit and music director AR Rahman enthral the audience with their performances. Shah Rukh recreated his Chak De! India dialogues as he recalled his connection with national sport and said "I did play a little bit of hockey in school and college. I used to play as a centre-forward, and right opposite me was obviously a goalkeeper,". There is one more connection between Shah Rukh and hockey that is present coach of Indian field hockey Harendra Singh. Harendra Singh and Shah Rukh have played in together in school hockey tournaments of Delhi. Shahrukh Khan was the centre-forward of St. Columba's team and Harendra Singh was a goalkeeper and forward for Union Academy school. "Shah Rukh used to come at Hanuman Temple, Connaught Place after school and stay with Pandit Jugal Kishor Sharma house. He was St Columbus student and I was with Union Academy School," revealed Harendra Singh. Today at the opening ceremony India's reel life and real hockey coaches were present together once again. Harendra expressed confidence that his young side in which seven out of 18 players are from the junior World Cup squad. Conceding last-minute goals has been India's perennial problem in the last few years but Harendra said it' is with all hockey playing nations. "We always discuss India concede a last-minute goal to lose. It has happened in the last 4-5 years, including the Asian Games. But that doesn't only happen with the Indian team. I can give you history where other teams also have lost the same way," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Shah Rukh and India's coach Harendra Singh played together in school tournaments

Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha is all geared up for the grand opening ceremony of Hockey World Cup 2018. The opening ceremony will carry a central message of "oneness".

With glitz and glamour, Hockey World Cup 2018 begins

Armed with a sense of togetherness, self- belief and a strong crowd backing them every moment, India will seek to end 43 years of hurt when they begin the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/hockey-world-cup">Hockey World Cup</a> campaign against South Africa here Wednesday.&nbsp;

The hosts' Pool C encounter at the Kalinga Stadium will be the showpiece event's second game.&nbsp;

Eight-time Olympic champions India's only glory at the World Cup came way back in 1975 when Ajit Pal Singh and his men's created history for the past masters of the game.&nbsp;

Since then India has failed to match the standards of the Europeans -&nbsp;Netherlands, Germany -&nbsp;and Australia, who have been ruling the game for over four decades now.&nbsp;

In the last 10 editions since its maiden triumph in 1975, India's best performance was a fifth-place finish at the 1982 edition in Mumbai (then Bombay).&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ready-to-take-up-world-cup-challenge-says-indian-goalkeeper-sreejesh-to-wion-179589">Ready to take up World Cup challenge, says Indian goalkeeper Sreejesh to WION</a>

Now, the world ranked fifth Indians would be eager to recreate the magic by reaching the semifinals, and possibly a podium finish.&nbsp;

That is though easier said than done as besides tackling powerhouses like two-time defending champions Australia, Netherlands, Germany and Olympic champions Argentina, the Indians will be under pressure to live up to the expectations of millions of fans.&nbsp;

The last time India played a World Cup at home, in 2010 in New Delhi, it finished a lowly eighth and going by records, the host nation has never fared well in the tournament.&nbsp;

All the nine countries to host a World Cup till date have finished eighth or above but Harendra Singh's men would be hoping to rewrite that in front of home fans.&nbsp;

For chief coach Harendra Singh, who has come under the scanner after India's failure to defend it's Asian Games title earlier this year, the tournament is a do-or-die one and a failure is sure to cost him his job.

Harendra would be hoping to recreate the magic of two years ago when he guided the junior Indian team to the World Cup title in Lucknow.&nbsp;

To achieve his goal, Harendra has drafted in seven of 18 junior World Cup winners in the senior team alongside senior pros like skipper Manpreet Singh, PR Sreejesh, Akashdeep Singh and the ever-reliable Birendra Lakra.&nbsp;

The Indian team for the World Cup is a mixture of youth and experience with seven of the 18 featuring in the last World Cup. The squad also has youthful exuberance in 19-year-old striker Dilpreet Singh and debutant Hardik Singh.&nbsp;

But two notable absentees from the squad are dragflicker Rupinder Pal Singh, who has been dropped and striker SV Sunil, who is unfit.&nbsp;

In the 16-nation tournament India are placed alongside South Africa, Belgium and Canada in their group.&nbsp;

Barring world no. 3 Belgium, India are expected to win hands down against world no. 15 South Africa and world no. 11 Canada.&nbsp;

The match against Belgium is India's big test in the pool stages and a win against the Red Lions is a must for the hosts to avoid the cross-overs and qualify directly for the quarterfinals.&nbsp;

After South Africa, India's opponents are Belgium on December 2 and Canada on December 8.&nbsp;

It is only the second World Cup after 2002 to feature 16 teams. From four pools of four teams each, the toppers will directly qualify for the quarterfinals while the second and third placed sides will have to play four cross-over matches to earn their places in the last-eight round.

Just like all big-ticket hockey events, Australia, Netherlands and Germany will once again start favourites to lift the title.&nbsp;

The Kookaburras, in fact, will be vying to create history by becoming the first team to win the trophy for the third time in a row.&nbsp;

In the other match of the opening day, Belgium will take on Canada.

Armed with a sense of togetherness, self- belief and a strong crowd backing them every moment, India will seek to end 43 years of hurt when they begin the Hockey World Cup campaign against South Africa here Wednesday.

Armed with a sense of togetherness, self- belief and a strong crowd backing them every moment, India will seek to end 43 years of hurt when they begin the Hockey World Cup campaign against South Africa here Wednesday. The hosts' Pool C encounter at the Kalinga Stadium will be the showpiece event's second game. Eight-time Olympic champions India's only glory at the World Cup came way back in 1975 when Ajit Pal Singh and his men's created history for the past masters of the game. Since then India has failed to match the standards of the Europeans - Netherlands, Germany - and Australia, who have been ruling the game for over four decades now. In the last 10 editions since its maiden triumph in 1975, India's best performance was a fifth-place finish at the 1982 edition in Mumbai (then Bombay). Ready to take up World Cup challenge, says Indian goalkeeper Sreejesh to WION Now, the world ranked fifth Indians would be eager to recreate the magic by reaching the semifinals, and possibly a podium finish. That is though easier said than done as besides tackling powerhouses like two-time defending champions Australia, Netherlands, Germany and Olympic champions Argentina, the Indians will be under pressure to live up to the expectations of millions of fans. The last time India played a World Cup at home, in 2010 in New Delhi, it finished a lowly eighth and going by records, the host nation has never fared well in the tournament. All the nine countries to host a World Cup till date have finished eighth or above but Harendra Singh's men would be hoping to rewrite that in front of home fans. For chief coach Harendra Singh, who has come under the scanner after India's failure to defend it's Asian Games title earlier this year, the tournament is a do-or-die one and a failure is sure to cost him his job. Harendra would be hoping to recreate the magic of two years ago when he guided the junior Indian team to the World Cup title in Lucknow. To achieve his goal, Harendra has drafted in seven of 18 junior World Cup winners in the senior team alongside senior pros like skipper Manpreet Singh, PR Sreejesh, Akashdeep Singh and the ever-reliable Birendra Lakra. The Indian team for the World Cup is a mixture of youth and experience with seven of the 18 featuring in the last World Cup. The squad also has youthful exuberance in 19-year-old striker Dilpreet Singh and debutant Hardik Singh. But two notable absentees from the squad are dragflicker Rupinder Pal Singh, who has been dropped and striker SV Sunil, who is unfit. In the 16-nation tournament India are placed alongside South Africa, Belgium and Canada in their group. Barring world no. 3 Belgium, India are expected to win hands down against world no. 15 South Africa and world no. 11 Canada. The match against Belgium is India's big test in the pool stages and a win against the Red Lions is a must for the hosts to avoid the cross-overs and qualify directly for the quarterfinals. After South Africa, India's opponents are Belgium on December 2 and Canada on December 8. It is only the second World Cup after 2002 to feature 16 teams. From four pools of four teams each, the toppers will directly qualify for the quarterfinals while the second and third placed sides will have to play four cross-over matches to earn their places in the last-eight round. Just like all big-ticket hockey events, Australia, Netherlands and Germany will once again start favourites to lift the title. The Kookaburras, in fact, will be vying to create history by becoming the first team to win the trophy for the third time in a row. In the other match of the opening day, Belgium will take on Canada.

Determined India look to end 43-year-long medal draught at Hockey World Cup

The Indian hockey team is all set to rewrite history as it attempts to clinch the elusive gold again in the 14th edition of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/hockey-world-cup">Men's Hockey World Cup</a> which is scheduled to take place at home in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.

India are placed in Pool C with Belgium, Canada and South Africa and will play their first match against South Africa on the opening day, i.e. November 28.

In an <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ready-to-take-up-world-cup-challenge-says-indian-goalkeeper-sreejesh-to-wion-179589">exclusive interview</a>, WION's sports editor Digvijay Singh Deo spoke to Indian hockey coach Harendra Singh, who said that it is the right place and right platform for every player in the team to deliver their best on the field and win gold.&nbsp;

He also shared the 'mantra' of winning gold at the World Cup.

In this edition, 16 teams, which are drawn into four groups, each containing four teams, will play a total of 36 matches within a span of 18 match days.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/determined-india-look-to-end-43-years-long-medal-draught-at-hockey-world-cup-179717">Determined India look to end 43 years long medal </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/determined-india-look-to-end-43-years-long-medal-draught-at-hockey-world-cup-179717">draught</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/determined-india-look-to-end-43-years-long-medal-draught-at-hockey-world-cup-179717"> at Hockey World Cup</a>

Each team plays each other in its group once. The first-place team in each group will advance to the quarter-finals, while the second and third-placed teams in each group go into the crossover matches. From there on a single-elimination tournament will be played which gives the weaker teams a chance to qualify further.

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Coach Harendra said, "The crucial match in this kind of format is the quarter-final." He further added that if the Team India manages to enter the semis then the chances of winning the tournament will be higher.

"I can guarantee you that's the only match that will change the history of India hockey," he told WION.

"The moment they will enter the semi-final, I can guarantee you that this team [team India] will stand at the centre of the podium," added the confident coach.

On being asked about the joy of playing at home, the coach said that it is something every sportsperson and coach looks forward in life.&nbsp;

There is always an add-on pressure when the team is playing in front of their own crowd but the coach said that this the time the players can connect with the people.&nbsp;

Having already led the junior hockey team to victory in 2016 Men's Hockey Junior World Cup in Lucknow, Singh is familiar with the winning feeling at home.&nbsp;

The Indian hockey team is all set to rewrite history as it attempts to clinch the elusive gold again in the 14th edition of Men's Hockey World Cup which is scheduled to take place at home in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.

The Indian hockey team is all set to rewrite history as it attempts to clinch the elusive gold again in the 14th edition of Men's Hockey World Cup which is scheduled to take place at home in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. India are placed in Pool C with Belgium, Canada and South Africa and will play their first match against South Africa on the opening day, i.e. November 28. In an exclusive interview, WION's sports editor Digvijay Singh Deo spoke to Indian hockey coach Harendra Singh, who said that it is the right place and right platform for every player in the team to deliver their best on the field and win gold. He also shared the 'mantra' of winning gold at the World Cup. In this edition, 16 teams, which are drawn into four groups, each containing four teams, will play a total of 36 matches within a span of 18 match days. Also Read: Determined India look to end 43 years long medal draught at Hockey World Cup Each team plays each other in its group once. The first-place team in each group will advance to the quarter-finals, while the second and third-placed teams in each group go into the crossover matches. From there on a single-elimination tournament will be played which gives the weaker teams a chance to qualify further. × Coach Harendra said, "The crucial match in this kind of format is the quarter-final." He further added that if the Team India manages to enter the semis then the chances of winning the tournament will be higher. "I can guarantee you that's the only match that will change the history of India hockey," he told WION. "The moment they will enter the semi-final, I can guarantee you that this team [team India] will stand at the centre of the podium," added the confident coach. On being asked about the joy of playing at home, the coach said that it is something every sportsperson and coach looks forward in life. There is always an add-on pressure when the team is playing in front of their own crowd but the coach said that this the time the players can connect with the people. Having already led the junior hockey team to victory in 2016 Men's Hockey Junior World Cup in Lucknow, Singh is familiar with the winning feeling at home.

India hockey coach Harendra Singh's 'mantra' to win gold at World Cup

Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha is all geared up for the grand opening ceremony of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/hockey-world-cup">Hockey World Cup&nbsp;2018</a>. The opening ceremony will carry a central message of "oneness".

Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan, music composer AR Rahman, and actress Madhuri Dixit are going to be the center of attraction during the much-awaited opening ceremony of the event.

The Odisha government has <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/odisha-government-declares-holiday-on-opening-ceremony-for-hockey-world-cup-179710">declared </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/odisha-government-declares-holiday-on-opening-ceremony-for-hockey-world-cup-179710">holiday</a> for schools and educational institutions on Tuesday for the inaugural event.

AR Rahman will be performing live, the Hockey World Cup 2018 official song during the ceremony with Shah Rukh Khan accompanying him in the act.

Madhuri Dixit is going to be the lead performer of the ceremony theme song called "Earth Song" in which she will be joined by another 1100 participants. It is with this song that the opening ceremony is slated to begin.

The song will represent a take on eastern culture meeting the west. The concept and premise of the act rests on the two halves that have polarised the world.

Created by Nupur Mahajan, the Earth Song will address the divide and showcase the blend through this act.

The 'Earth Song' act is choreographed by Aruna Mohanty for the eastern elements and Shiamak Davar offered his expertise for the western elements.&nbsp;

The act will be a perfect exhibition of fusion performances. The diverse performances will include Indian classical versions of Odissi, Mohiniattam, Bharatnatyam, Sattriya, Kathak and Kuchipudi and western versions of Ballet, Samba, Jazz, Afro, Balinese, Capioera and Contemporary.

The act will aim to connect the commonalities of the two cultures while displaying a full array of dance performance.

On November 18, Hockey India had released the much-awaited teaser of the official song of the 2018 Men's Hockey World Cup featuring music composer AR Rahman and Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan.

Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha is all geared up for the grand opening ceremony of Hockey World Cup 2018. The opening ceremony will carry a central message of "oneness". Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan, music composer AR Rahman, and actress Madhuri Dixit are going to be the center of attraction during the much-awaited opening ceremony of the event. The Odisha government has declared holiday for schools and educational institutions on Tuesday for the inaugural event. AR Rahman will be performing live, the Hockey World Cup 2018 official song during the ceremony with Shah Rukh Khan accompanying him in the act. Madhuri Dixit is going to be the lead performer of the ceremony theme song called "Earth Song" in which she will be joined by another 1100 participants. It is with this song that the opening ceremony is slated to begin. The song will represent a take on eastern culture meeting the west. The concept and premise of the act rests on the two halves that have polarised the world. Created by Nupur Mahajan, the Earth Song will address the divide and showcase the blend through this act. The 'Earth Song' act is choreographed by Aruna Mohanty for the eastern elements and Shiamak Davar offered his expertise for the western elements. The act will be a perfect exhibition of fusion performances. The diverse performances will include Indian classical versions of Odissi, Mohiniattam, Bharatnatyam, Sattriya, Kathak and Kuchipudi and western versions of Ballet, Samba, Jazz, Afro, Balinese, Capioera and Contemporary. The act will aim to connect the commonalities of the two cultures while displaying a full array of dance performance. On November 18, Hockey India had released the much-awaited teaser of the official song of the 2018 Men's Hockey World Cup featuring music composer AR Rahman and Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan.

Shah Rukh Khan, AR Rahman, Madhuri Dixit to perform at grand opening ceremony of Hockey World Cup

The 2018 Men's <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=schedule">Hockey World Cup</a> is scheduled to be held from November 28 to December 16, 2018, and the opening ceremony for the event, which was earlier scheduled for November 27 at the Kalinga Stadium, will now be held in two parts.

The inaugural ceremony for the sporting event is scheduled to be held in the evening on Tuesday. Meanwhile, matches for the World Cup will commence at Kalinga Stadium from Wednesday.

The Odisha government announced that all educational institutions in Bhubaneswar will remain closed for the opening ceremony.

Schools and educational institutions in the capital city will remain closed on Tuesday, while educational institutions across the state will remain closed after 1.30 pm, a release from the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) said.

Similarly, all government offices in the state, including those in Bhubaneswar, will function till 1.30 pm, the release added.

For the grand ceremony of the prestigious event, Bollywood actors Shah Rukh Khan, Madhuri Dixit and music maestro AR Rahman are slated to perform at the inaugural programme at Kalinga Stadium on Tuesday. Besides, some Odia actors will also perform at the programme.

The 2018 Men's Hockey World Cup is scheduled to be held from November 28 to December 16, 2018, and the opening ceremony for the event, which was earlier scheduled for November 27 at the Kalinga Stadium, will now be held in two parts.

The 2018 Men's Hockey World Cup is scheduled to be held from November 28 to December 16, 2018, and the opening ceremony for the event, which was earlier scheduled for November 27 at the Kalinga Stadium, will now be held in two parts. The inaugural ceremony for the sporting event is scheduled to be held in the evening on Tuesday. Meanwhile, matches for the World Cup will commence at Kalinga Stadium from Wednesday. The Odisha government announced that all educational institutions in Bhubaneswar will remain closed for the opening ceremony. Schools and educational institutions in the capital city will remain closed on Tuesday, while educational institutions across the state will remain closed after 1.30 pm, a release from the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) said. Similarly, all government offices in the state, including those in Bhubaneswar, will function till 1.30 pm, the release added. For the grand ceremony of the prestigious event, Bollywood actors Shah Rukh Khan, Madhuri Dixit and music maestro AR Rahman are slated to perform at the inaugural programme at Kalinga Stadium on Tuesday. Besides, some Odia actors will also perform at the programme.

Odisha government declares holiday for schools, offices for Hockey World Cup

Kalinga Sena has withdrawn its threat to throw ink on Shah Rukh Khan. On Monday, the&nbsp;fringe outfit took the decision following an appeal from Hockey India president Mohammed Mushtaque Ahmad. The outfit had earlier threatened to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/kalinga-sena-threatens-to-throw-ink-at-shah-rukh-khan-claims-his-2001-film-asoka-insulted-people-of-odisha-179019">throw ink at SRK during his visit for Hockey World Cup</a> which kickstarts from 28th November in Bhuvaneshwar.&nbsp;

“We have decided to withdraw our pledge following the request by Hockey India President. Since it is an international event and Shah Rukh Khan is a promoter, we don’t want to protest, as that would give a bad name to Odisha,” Kalinga Sena chief Hemant Rath said.

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We have decided to withdraw the threat for the time being in view of the request made by Hockey India President and Odisha govt and police. Further decision will be taken later but we haven't forgiven Shah Rukh Khan: Kalinga Sena chief Hemant Rath (26.11) <a href="https://t.co/KFmiWm7sKV">pic.twitter.com/KFmiWm7sKV</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1067212164103106560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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However, Rath said that the people of Odisha had not forgiven Khan for 'insulting their sentiments and distorting history in his film 'Ashoka' which 17 years back. &nbsp;

The Kalinga Sena had demanded an apology from Shah Rukh who played the lead role and was also the producer of the film, alleging that the film dishonoured the state’s culture and by portraying the Kalinga War in a wrong manner.

Earlier, the Hockey India President, in a letter, had appealed to the outfit not to protest against Khan’s visit. “Shah Rukh Khan is one of the most popular actors of India and is widely known in the hockey community for his support for hockey and movie Chak de India and because of this he has been invited to attend the opening ceremony,” said Ahmad.

“Throwing ink on someone who has been invited as a guest shall bring a bad name to India and will show Odisha in a very poor light in front of all international guests, including the teams,” he added.

Shah Rukh Khan, Madhuri Dixit and music director AR Rahman will perform during the inaugural ceremony of the Men’s Hockey World Cup at Kalinga Stadium here on Tuesday.

Kalinga Sena has withdrawn its threat to throw ink on Shah Rukh Khan. On Monday, the fringe outfit took the decision following an appeal from Hockey India president Mohammed Mushtaque Ahmad.

Kalinga Sena has withdrawn its threat to throw ink on Shah Rukh Khan. On Monday, the fringe outfit took the decision following an appeal from Hockey India president Mohammed Mushtaque Ahmad. The outfit had earlier threatened to throw ink at SRK during his visit for Hockey World Cup which kickstarts from 28th November in Bhuvaneshwar. “We have decided to withdraw our pledge following the request by Hockey India President. Since it is an international event and Shah Rukh Khan is a promoter, we don’t want to protest, as that would give a bad name to Odisha,” Kalinga Sena chief Hemant Rath said. We have decided to withdraw the threat for the time being in view of the request made by Hockey India President and Odisha govt and police. Further decision will be taken later but we haven't forgiven Shah Rukh Khan: Kalinga Sena chief Hemant Rath (26.11) pic.twitter.com/KFmiWm7sKV — ANI (@ANI) November 27, 2018 × However, Rath said that the people of Odisha had not forgiven Khan for 'insulting their sentiments and distorting history in his film 'Ashoka' which 17 years back. The Kalinga Sena had demanded an apology from Shah Rukh who played the lead role and was also the producer of the film, alleging that the film dishonoured the state’s culture and by portraying the Kalinga War in a wrong manner. Earlier, the Hockey India President, in a letter, had appealed to the outfit not to protest against Khan’s visit. “Shah Rukh Khan is one of the most popular actors of India and is widely known in the hockey community for his support for hockey and movie Chak de India and because of this he has been invited to attend the opening ceremony,” said Ahmad. “Throwing ink on someone who has been invited as a guest shall bring a bad name to India and will show Odisha in a very poor light in front of all international guests, including the teams,” he added. Shah Rukh Khan, Madhuri Dixit and music director AR Rahman will perform during the inaugural ceremony of the Men’s Hockey World Cup at Kalinga Stadium here on Tuesday.

Kalinga Sena withdraws its threat against Shah Rukh Khan ahead of inaugural ceremony of Hockey World Cup

Playing hosts India in the opening match of the World Cup Hockey is the kind of challenge any team awaits, said South African captain Tim Drummond.

South Africa will be playing India in a pool C encounter at the Kalinga Stadium on November 28.&nbsp;

"It will be a privilege to play India in the first match and experience the crowd. I have heard it is going to be very loud with all the cheering," Drummond said.

"Though it's not my first time in India, many of my teammates are travelling here for the first time and they are very excited to be playing in Bhubaneswar, which has great support for hockey," the South African captain added.

He is confident that they will improve from their 10th place finish during the last edition.&nbsp;

"South Africa's best performance in the past was finishing 10th and we will certainly be looking at improving that. Our aim is to give our best and make our country proud. We played four test matches against France before arriving here so we have had some good match practice ahead of the tournament," he added.&nbsp;

The team's have started arriving and Argentina, one of the formidable sides are already in the city.

Argentina's drag-flick sensation Gonzalo Peillat said, "It will be a great tournament, playing in Bhubaneswar again in front of a crazy crowd. The entire team is looking forward to it and are very excited to be back."

The Olympic champions have a new chief coach in Germ?n Mariano Orozco, who replaced former Chief Coach Carlos Retegui in early 2018 and is a former defender for Argentina having played the Olympic Games in 2000 and 2004.&nbsp;

"I think we have good experience and have played quite a few tournaments in the lead up to the World Cup under new coach Orozco. We have been performing well under him," said a confident Peillat.&nbsp;

Playing hosts India in the opening match of the World Cup Hockey is the kind of challenge any team awaits, said South African captain Tim Drummond. South Africa will be playing India in a pool C encounter at the Kalinga Stadium on November 28.

Playing hosts India in the opening match of the World Cup Hockey is the kind of challenge any team awaits, said South African captain Tim Drummond. South Africa will be playing India in a pool C encounter at the Kalinga Stadium on November 28. "It will be a privilege to play India in the first match and experience the crowd. I have heard it is going to be very loud with all the cheering," Drummond said. "Though it's not my first time in India, many of my teammates are travelling here for the first time and they are very excited to be playing in Bhubaneswar, which has great support for hockey," the South African captain added. He is confident that they will improve from their 10th place finish during the last edition. "South Africa's best performance in the past was finishing 10th and we will certainly be looking at improving that. Our aim is to give our best and make our country proud. We played four test matches against France before arriving here so we have had some good match practice ahead of the tournament," he added. The team's have started arriving and Argentina, one of the formidable sides are already in the city. Argentina's drag-flick sensation Gonzalo Peillat said, "It will be a great tournament, playing in Bhubaneswar again in front of a crazy crowd. The entire team is looking forward to it and are very excited to be back." The Olympic champions have a new chief coach in Germ?n Mariano Orozco, who replaced former Chief Coach Carlos Retegui in early 2018 and is a former defender for Argentina having played the Olympic Games in 2000 and 2004. "I think we have good experience and have played quite a few tournaments in the lead up to the World Cup under new coach Orozco. We have been performing well under him," said a confident Peillat.

It will be privilege to play India in first game, says SA captain

Pakistan High Commissioner Sohail Mahmood Sunday welcomed the Pakistani hockey team visiting India for the Hockey World Cup.

"Mahmood extended a warm welcome to members of the Pakistan Hockey contingent," the Pakistan embassy said in a release.

The high commissioner, senior officials of the Pakistan mission and representatives of Hockey India were present at the airport here during the team's transit on its way to Bhubaneswar, it said.

The team entered India through the Wagah-Attari border, according to the release.

For their part, team manager Hasan Sardar and Captain Muhamad Rizwan thanked the high commissioner and other senior officials for their support.

"High Commissioner Sohail Mahmood extended best wishes to the Pakistani hockey team for success during the Hockey World Cup," the release said.

The Pakistani team will play its pool matches against Germany on December 1, Malaysia on December 5, and the Netherlands on December 9.

Pakistan High Commissioner Sohail Mahmood Sunday welcomed the Pakistani hockey team visiting India for the Hockey World Cup. "Mahmood extended a warm welcome to members of the Pakistan Hockey contingent," the Pakistan embassy said in a release.

Pakistan High Commissioner Sohail Mahmood Sunday welcomed the Pakistani hockey team visiting India for the Hockey World Cup. "Mahmood extended a warm welcome to members of the Pakistan Hockey contingent," the Pakistan embassy said in a release. The high commissioner, senior officials of the Pakistan mission and representatives of Hockey India were present at the airport here during the team's transit on its way to Bhubaneswar, it said. The team entered India through the Wagah-Attari border, according to the release. For their part, team manager Hasan Sardar and Captain Muhamad Rizwan thanked the high commissioner and other senior officials for their support. "High Commissioner Sohail Mahmood extended best wishes to the Pakistani hockey team for success during the Hockey World Cup," the release said. The Pakistani team will play its pool matches against Germany on December 1, Malaysia on December 5, and the Netherlands on December 9.

Pak high commissioner welcomes hockey team in India

Malaysia's head coach Roelant Oltmans believes that his team's recent performances will give them the required confidence to make an impact at the 14th edition of Men's Hockey World Cup 2018.&nbsp;

Recently, Malaysia won bronze at the Asian Champions Trophy after defeating Japan for the third-place match, where India and Pakistan were the champions as they shared the title.

For World Cup, team Malaysia has been placed in Pool D with Netherlands, Germany and Pakistan.&nbsp;

"We understand that we’re in a very difficult pool, so our first aim is to get into the next round," Malaysia head coach Oltmans told to International Hockey Federation after winning bronze at the Asian Champions Trophy 2018.

"We will try to make this happen by performing at the very top of our game. Once we achieve this aim, we will re-set our goals for the next stages," he added.

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/hockeymalaysia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@hockeymalaysia</a>'s Chief Coach <a href="https://twitter.com/OltmansOltmans?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@OltmansOltmans</a> believes his team's recent performances give them the confidence they require to make an impact at the Odisha Hockey Men's World Cup Bhubaneswar 2018.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaKaGame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaKaGame</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HWC2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HWC2018</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DilHockey?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DilHockey</a> <a href="https://t.co/GwNJH2ImCy">pic.twitter.com/GwNJH2ImCy</a>
— Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHockeyIndia/status/1066783914448969728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Over the past few years Oltmans has coached India men, Pakistan men and, for the past few months, has been head coach to Malaysia's Tigers.

He also shared his approach that how the team will prepare for the World Cup.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/mens-hockey-world-cup-2018-all-teams-and-their-squad-list-177944">Men's Hockey World Cup 2018: All teams and their squad list</a>

"It is most important that the players realise from the start, that the competition needs a different approach because of the time between matches - particularly in the opening stages," he said.

Malaysia hockey team has arrived for the tournament at the Odisha on November 25 and under the guidance of experienced coach Roelant Oltmans, the team will look for the podium finish.

Here is the squad of Malaysia hockey team:

Squad: Norsyafiq Sumantri, Ramadan Rosli, Marhan Jalil, Fitri Saari, Joel van Huizen, Faizal Saari, Syed Cholan, Sukri Mutalib (C), Firhan Ashaari, Nabil Fiqri, Kumar Subramaniam, Razie Rahim, Faiz Jali, Azri Hassan, Azuan Hassan, Tengku Ahmad Tajuddin, Aiman Rozemi, Hairi Rahman.

Malaysia's head coach Roelant Oltmans believes that his team's recent performances will give them the required confidence to make an impact at the 14th edition of Men's Hockey World Cup 2018.

Malaysia's head coach Roelant Oltmans believes that his team's recent performances will give them the required confidence to make an impact at the 14th edition of Men's Hockey World Cup 2018. Recently, Malaysia won bronze at the Asian Champions Trophy after defeating Japan for the third-place match, where India and Pakistan were the champions as they shared the title. For World Cup, team Malaysia has been placed in Pool D with Netherlands, Germany and Pakistan. "We understand that we’re in a very difficult pool, so our first aim is to get into the next round," Malaysia head coach Oltmans told to International Hockey Federation after winning bronze at the Asian Champions Trophy 2018. "We will try to make this happen by performing at the very top of our game. Once we achieve this aim, we will re-set our goals for the next stages," he added. .@hockeymalaysia's Chief Coach @OltmansOltmans believes his team's recent performances give them the confidence they require to make an impact at the Odisha Hockey Men's World Cup Bhubaneswar 2018.#IndiaKaGame #HWC2018 #DilHockey pic.twitter.com/GwNJH2ImCy — Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) November 25, 2018 × Over the past few years Oltmans has coached India men, Pakistan men and, for the past few months, has been head coach to Malaysia's Tigers. He also shared his approach that how the team will prepare for the World Cup. Men's Hockey World Cup 2018: All teams and their squad list "It is most important that the players realise from the start, that the competition needs a different approach because of the time between matches - particularly in the opening stages," he said. Malaysia hockey team has arrived for the tournament at the Odisha on November 25 and under the guidance of experienced coach Roelant Oltmans, the team will look for the podium finish. Here is the squad of Malaysia hockey team: Squad: Norsyafiq Sumantri, Ramadan Rosli, Marhan Jalil, Fitri Saari, Joel van Huizen, Faizal Saari, Syed Cholan, Sukri Mutalib (C), Firhan Ashaari, Nabil Fiqri, Kumar Subramaniam, Razie Rahim, Faiz Jali, Azri Hassan, Azuan Hassan, Tengku Ahmad Tajuddin, Aiman Rozemi, Hairi Rahman.

Malaysian head coach Roelant Oltmans aim for podium finish

A local outfit Thursday threatened to throw ink at Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan and show him the black flag when he visits the city next week during the 2018 Men's Hockey World Cup. 
 
Hemant Rath, the chief of the outfit which calls itself 'Kalinga Sena', has demanded an apology from Khan for allegedly insulting Odisha and its people in his film 'Ashoka' that was made 17 years ago. 
 
The outfit had also filed a complaint with the police here on November 1 alleging that Khan has hurt the sentiment of Odia people and dishonoured the state's culture by portraying the Kalinga war in a wrong manner. 
 
The Kalinga (historical name of Odisha) war was fought in 265 BC in which Emperor Ashoka defeated the Kalinga king and the kingdom was annexed to the Mauryan empire. The war is considered one of the bloodiest battles and had prompted Ashoka to embrace Buddhism. 
 
"We have made preparation to throw ink on the actor's face and show him black flag at any place from the airport to the stadium. Our activists will remain present all along the road where Khan is likely to visit," the press statement issued by Kalinga Sena general secretary Nihar Pani said. 
 
'Ashoka', which was released in 2001, could not run in the theatres in the state for more than seven days due to protests. 
 
Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has invited Khan, who is slated to be present at the Kalinga Stadium on November 27 during the inauguration of the Men's Hockey World Cup. 
Kalinga Sena had held a rally here on November 11 and burnt SRK's effigy as a mark of protest. 
 
A senior police officer said adequate security arrangements will be made for all the visiting VVIPs including Khan.&nbsp;

A local outfit Thursday threatened to throw ink at Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan and show him the black flag when he visits the city next week during the 2018 Men's Hockey World Cup.

A local outfit Thursday threatened to throw ink at Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan and show him the black flag when he visits the city next week during the 2018 Men's Hockey World Cup. Hemant Rath, the chief of the outfit which calls itself 'Kalinga Sena', has demanded an apology from Khan for allegedly insulting Odisha and its people in his film 'Ashoka' that was made 17 years ago. The outfit had also filed a complaint with the police here on November 1 alleging that Khan has hurt the sentiment of Odia people and dishonoured the state's culture by portraying the Kalinga war in a wrong manner. The Kalinga (historical name of Odisha) war was fought in 265 BC in which Emperor Ashoka defeated the Kalinga king and the kingdom was annexed to the Mauryan empire. The war is considered one of the bloodiest battles and had prompted Ashoka to embrace Buddhism. "We have made preparation to throw ink on the actor's face and show him black flag at any place from the airport to the stadium. Our activists will remain present all along the road where Khan is likely to visit," the press statement issued by Kalinga Sena general secretary Nihar Pani said. 'Ashoka', which was released in 2001, could not run in the theatres in the state for more than seven days due to protests. Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has invited Khan, who is slated to be present at the Kalinga Stadium on November 27 during the inauguration of the Men's Hockey World Cup. Kalinga Sena had held a rally here on November 11 and burnt SRK's effigy as a mark of protest. A senior police officer said adequate security arrangements will be made for all the visiting VVIPs including Khan.

Kalinga Sena threatens to throw ink at SRK, claims his film 'Asoka' insulted people of Odisha

France, South Africa men’s hockey teams arrive in India for World cup

A united India, "on and off the field", has the capability to recreate history and lift the men's hockey World Cup after 43 years, feels the country's lone World Cup-winning captain Ajitpal Singh.

India's only World Cup triumph came in the third edition of the championships way back in 1975, after a 2-1 win over Pakistan at Kuala Lumpur.

Since then the eight-time Olympic champions' best performance at the World Cup was fifth-place finishes at the 1982 and 1994 editions.

But this time around Ajitpal has high hopes from Harendra Singh's brigade and feels the world ranked fifth Indian team can do wonders if they play to its potential and remain united throughout the event.

"Our team is looking sharper, more combined, fitter. They have now learnt how top handle hockey on turf. But the team which plays together can achieve anything," Ajitpal said on the sidelines of the release of a curated coffee table book titled 'The Illustrated History of Indian Hockey: A Saga of Triumph, Pain and Dreams, authored by senior sports journalist V Krishnaswamy.

"But for that we will have to remain united on and off the field. Our target should be nothing other than winning the Cup," he added.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/mens-hockey-world-cup-2018-all-teams-and-their-squad-list-177944">Men's Hockey World Cup 2018: All teams and their squad list</a>

The coffee table book was released by Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister Arun Jaitley in the presence of International Hockey Federation (FIH) and Indian Olympic Association (IOA) chief Narinder Batra, Hockey India President Mohd Mushtaque Ahmad, Secretary General Rajinder Singh and CEO Elena Norman among others.

The former hockey stalwart said anything less than semifinals would be a below-par performance for the Indians in front of their home fans.

"We should know how to handle pressure. We should finish in top four and after that it can be anybody's game," Ajitpal said.

Another hockey great Zafar Iqbal, a member of India's last Olympic gold-winning side in 1980, opined with his senior teammate and said the hosts need to play like "champions" from the word go.

"It won't be easy as all the top hockey playing nations of the world will be vying for the Cup but India has a balanced team with a mixture of youth and experience," he said.

"We have the capability to play in the semis or the final but for that we should play like champions.

"Definitely there will be pressure but the team is looking confident. We are now mentally much stronger and we should play tough hockey against any team," he added.

The men's hockey World Cup will be played in Bhubaneswar from November 28 to December 16. Hosts India will open their campaign against South Africa on the opening day of the event.

A united India, "on and off the field", has the capability to recreate history and lift the men's hockey World Cup after 43 years, feels the country's lone World Cup-winning captain Ajitpal Singh.

A united India, "on and off the field", has the capability to recreate history and lift the men's hockey World Cup after 43 years, feels the country's lone World Cup-winning captain Ajitpal Singh. India's only World Cup triumph came in the third edition of the championships way back in 1975, after a 2-1 win over Pakistan at Kuala Lumpur. Since then the eight-time Olympic champions' best performance at the World Cup was fifth-place finishes at the 1982 and 1994 editions. But this time around Ajitpal has high hopes from Harendra Singh's brigade and feels the world ranked fifth Indian team can do wonders if they play to its potential and remain united throughout the event. "Our team is looking sharper, more combined, fitter. They have now learnt how top handle hockey on turf. But the team which plays together can achieve anything," Ajitpal said on the sidelines of the release of a curated coffee table book titled 'The Illustrated History of Indian Hockey: A Saga of Triumph, Pain and Dreams, authored by senior sports journalist V Krishnaswamy. "But for that we will have to remain united on and off the field. Our target should be nothing other than winning the Cup," he added. Men's Hockey World Cup 2018: All teams and their squad list The coffee table book was released by Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister Arun Jaitley in the presence of International Hockey Federation (FIH) and Indian Olympic Association (IOA) chief Narinder Batra, Hockey India President Mohd Mushtaque Ahmad, Secretary General Rajinder Singh and CEO Elena Norman among others. The former hockey stalwart said anything less than semifinals would be a below-par performance for the Indians in front of their home fans. "We should know how to handle pressure. We should finish in top four and after that it can be anybody's game," Ajitpal said. Another hockey great Zafar Iqbal, a member of India's last Olympic gold-winning side in 1980, opined with his senior teammate and said the hosts need to play like "champions" from the word go. "It won't be easy as all the top hockey playing nations of the world will be vying for the Cup but India has a balanced team with a mixture of youth and experience," he said. "We have the capability to play in the semis or the final but for that we should play like champions. "Definitely there will be pressure but the team is looking confident. We are now mentally much stronger and we should play tough hockey against any team," he added. The men's hockey World Cup will be played in Bhubaneswar from November 28 to December 16. Hosts India will open their campaign against South Africa on the opening day of the event.

'United' India can lift hockey World Cup after 43 years, says Ajitpal

As the much-awaited Hockey Men's World Cup is inching closer, music maestro AR Rahman has shared the glimpse of the much-anticipated official theme song and video of the hockey tournament, slated to be held from November 28 to December 16 in Bhubaneswar.

Bollywood music composer and producer Rahman&nbsp;uploaded a teaser video of the official track titled 'Jai Hind India' of the Hockey Men's World Cup on Twitter.

"Presenting the promo for 'Jai Hind India' the song for Hockey World Cup 2018 with @iamsrk and wonderful musicians who have collaborated for this track," Rahman tweeted.

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Presenting the promo for 'Jai Hind India' the song for Hockey World Cup 2018 with <a href="https://twitter.com/iamsrk?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@iamsrk</a> and wonderful musicians who have collaborated for this track. <a href="https://t.co/MqzMPZGUXG">https://t.co/MqzMPZGUXG</a><a href="https://twitter.com/nupur_mahajan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nupur_mahajan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Naveen_Odisha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Naveen_Odisha</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HeartBeatsForHockey?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HeartBeatsForHockey</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AbBasHockey?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AbBasHockey</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HWC2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HWC2018</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BToSProductions?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BToSProductions</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Nayanthara?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Nayanthara</a>
— A.R.Rahman (@arrahman) <a href="https://twitter.com/arrahman/status/1064145854439731200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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To make it best, Rahman has collaborated with Bollywood lyricist Gulzar. The teaser video also features actor Shah Rukh Khan.

As soon as the promo video was released, Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik thanked the Grammy award-winner, stating the "catchy" teaser captures the excitement and euphoria of Hockey lovers across the country."

Thanks @arrahman ji for #OdishaWorldCupAnthem. The catchy teaser captures the excitement &amp; euphoria of hockey lovers across India for #HockeyWorldCup2018. Looking forward to the full version &amp; watching you live in #Bhubaneswar &amp; #Cuttack", Patnaik said.

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Thanks <a href="https://twitter.com/arrahman?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@arrahman</a> ji for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OdishaWorldCupAnthem?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OdishaWorldCupAnthem</a>. The catchy teaser captures the excitement &amp; euphoria of hockey lovers across India for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HockeyWorldCup2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HockeyWorldCup2018</a>. Looking forward to the full version &amp; watching you live in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bhubaneswar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bhubaneswar</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cuttack?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cuttack</a><a href="https://t.co/ZK2wuRn7eN">https://t.co/ZK2wuRn7eN</a>
— Naveen Patnaik (@Naveen_Odisha) <a href="https://twitter.com/Naveen_Odisha/status/1064148880994922497?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Watch the theme song here:

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A total of 16 countries are participating in the 14th edition of the event. This is the third time that India are hosting the event after having organised it in 1982 in Mumbai and in 2010 in New Delhi.

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As the much-awaited Hockey Men's World Cup is inching closer, music maestro AR Rahman has shared the glimpse of the much-anticipated official theme song and video of the hockey tournament, slated to be held from November 28 to December 16 in Bhubaneswar.

As the much-awaited Hockey Men's World Cup is inching closer, music maestro AR Rahman has shared the glimpse of the much-anticipated official theme song and video of the hockey tournament, slated to be held from November 28 to December 16 in Bhubaneswar. Bollywood music composer and producer Rahman uploaded a teaser video of the official track titled 'Jai Hind India' of the Hockey Men's World Cup on Twitter. "Presenting the promo for 'Jai Hind India' the song for Hockey World Cup 2018 with @iamsrk and wonderful musicians who have collaborated for this track," Rahman tweeted. Presenting the promo for 'Jai Hind India' the song for Hockey World Cup 2018 with @iamsrk and wonderful musicians who have collaborated for this track. https://t.co/MqzMPZGUXG@nupur_mahajan @Naveen_Odisha #HeartBeatsForHockey #AbBasHockey #HWC2018 #BToSProductions #Nayanthara — A.R.Rahman (@arrahman) November 18, 2018 × To make it best, Rahman has collaborated with Bollywood lyricist Gulzar. The teaser video also features actor Shah Rukh Khan. As soon as the promo video was released, Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik thanked the Grammy award-winner, stating the "catchy" teaser captures the excitement and euphoria of Hockey lovers across the country." Thanks @arrahman ji for #OdishaWorldCupAnthem. The catchy teaser captures the excitement & euphoria of hockey lovers across India for #HockeyWorldCup2018. Looking forward to the full version & watching you live in #Bhubaneswar & #Cuttack", Patnaik said. Thanks @arrahman ji for #OdishaWorldCupAnthem. The catchy teaser captures the excitement & euphoria of hockey lovers across India for #HockeyWorldCup2018. Looking forward to the full version & watching you live in #Bhubaneswar & #Cuttackhttps://t.co/ZK2wuRn7eN — Naveen Patnaik (@Naveen_Odisha) November 18, 2018 × Watch the theme song here: × A total of 16 countries are participating in the 14th edition of the event. This is the third time that India are hosting the event after having organised it in 1982 in Mumbai and in 2010 in New Delhi.

Watch: Theme song 'Jai Hind India' for Hockey World Cup 2018

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