The Hockey Champions Trophy is the International Hockey Federation's most prestigious annual event since 1978. It was proudly founded by Pakistan's Air Marshal Nur Khan; it features the world's top-ranked teams. The Pakistan Hockey Federation started the competition as a men's tournament in 1978. The tournament has been an annual event since 1980 for men and since 1987 for women.
Australia has won the event 11 times while Germany has been successful 9 times in the tournament.
Netherland prevail the title 8 times with Spain having a title to their name on single occasion. Pakistan has been champion of the event in 1978, 1980 & 1994.
Now 2011 is the year and Auckland is ready to host Men Champions trophy where Australia will defend the title. Eight Teams have been divided in two groups.
Group A: Pakistan, Australia, Spain, England
Group B: Germany, Netherland, Korea, New Zealand
Pakistan Hockey team has made their way to Auckland on Saturday, under the captaincy of Muhammad Imran. Green Shirts has to start their battle from Group A which includes the heavy weights like Australia, Spain and England.
Green team is currently ranked at 8 but they are capable enough to beat any side in the world. Confidence will be sky high after becoming Asian champions and beating No.1 ranked side Australia in recent Tri-nation series. Conditions will not be an issue for our lads as they accomplished their previous challenge in Australia which has pretty similar conditions to New Zealand.
India and the West Indies start their ODI series in Cuttock. India have rested several high profile names, while the Windies are without Gayle and the elder Bravo. India will look to carry on the form of the Test matches while the West Indies need to salvage some pride

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