With the downslide of Pakistan hockey, much of their storied rivalry with India has been watered down. But that has hardly dulled the intensity with which the teams play against each other. However, the potency of the contest apart, the gap between the two teams is glaring. And not merely in terms of world ranking or recent results, but in fitness, mental strength, and tactics too, India are head and shoulder above Pakistan.
With the two teams set to clash in the Asian Champions Trophy in Hulunbir, China on Saturday, India will go into the match as overwhelming favourite.
The defending champions are currently on a four-match winning streak and Pakistan have fared well too. India top the six-team single pool with 12 points, while Pakistan are placed second with two wins and an equal number of draws earning them eight points.
