Pakistan captain Abu Bakar Mahmood says rankings irrelevant ahead of World Cup clash with India

Pakistan captain Abu Bakar Mahmood dismissed the importance of rankings in comments published on August 16, 2026, ahead of his team's Hockey World Cup clash with India.

He said actual performance on the field would determine the winner.

After ten years without a win against India, Pakistan are aiming to reach the World Cup quarterfinals and are relying on a blend of youthful energy and seasoned leadership.