Raipur, Nov 26 (IANS) Eight of the best teams from across the world have gathered to compete in the year’s biggest event — the Hockey World League (HWL) Final — to be held at the 3,400-seat Sardar Vallabh Bhai International Hockey Stadium here from November 27 to December 6.
The tourney will see hosts India share the astroturf with reigning World Champions Australia, Argentina, Olympic champions Germany, Belgium, Canada, defending champions Netherlands and Britain.
In a glittering ceremony at a city hotel here on Thursday, the captains of all eight teams unveiled the beautiful HWL Finals trophy.
India face Argentina in their first encounter on Friday just after the grand opening ceremony showcasing Chhattisgarh folk culture. The ceremony will include cultural performances from folk artists from Chhattisgarh and will be presided over by Chief Minister Raman Singh and Governor Balramji Dass Tandon.