Pakistan kicked off their 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup on a disappointing note and suffered a 4-1 defeat against England. The Three Lions scored their first goal in the 12th minute and there was no looking back for them after that. Pakistan, who failed to convert a penalty corner into a goal in the fifth minute, finally scored in the 51st minute. Pakistan touched a new low during the fixture as their players forgot the penalty corner protective gear in the changing room. As a result, their captain Abu Bakr received the green card, which meant he had to sit out for two minutes.

A green card is issued for minor offences and the player has to sit out for two minutes. Former Pakistan captain Salman Akbar highlighted Pakistan’s blunder during the fixture and questioned their preparedness.

“Wow. Another unwanted record from Pakistan hockey. In the opening match of the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 against England, Pakistan reportedly forgot the penalty corner protective gear in the changing room. As a result, the captain received the green card,” Salman wrote on X.

“Forgetting essential protective equipment for penalty corners that simply cannot happen on the biggest stage of international hockey. Preparation is not just about tactics, fitness and skills. It is also about discipline and organization. The World Cup demands the highest level of professionalism. Unfortunately, moments like this raise serious questions about how prepared we really are for the big stage,” he added.

Pakistan will face Wales in their next game on August 17. India and Pakistan will lock horns in the much-awaited tie on August 19. India kicked off their campaign with a 3-1 win against Wales on Saturday (August 15).

Speaking exclusively to Sports Now, Pakistan great Salman Akbar said that India won’t struggle in reaching the top eight. However, it won’t be easy for them in the second round, as per the former Pakistan captain.

“India shouldn’t struggle at all in reaching the top eight. If we look at their current form, there is a lot of confidence in the Indian team. They finished the Pro League on a winning note, and they’ll carry that confidence into the World Cup,” Salman told Sports Now.

“I think it will not be easy, especially in the second round. If India is going to the semi-final, being ranked eighth, it means two or three top teams will drop from the top four. It could be the Netherlands, Germany or Belgium. It’s not easy,” he added.