India to face China in campaign opener
The Asian Champions Trophy 2023 is set to commence on August 3, with a thrilling match between arch-rivals India and China at the renowned Mayor Radhakrishnan Hockey Stadium in Chennai. As defending champions Korea go head-to-head with Japan in the opening match, hockey enthusiasts eagerly await the clash between India and China. This six-team tournament, also featuring Malaysia, Pakistan, and Japan, promises fierce competition as these nations battle it out for top honors. With the tournament schedule announced, fans are gearing up for an unforgettable display of exceptional hockey.
The Asian Champions Trophy Format:
All six teams, namely Korea, Malaysia, Pakistan, Japan, China, and India, will compete within a single pool. The tournament will employ a league system to determine the positions on the points table. Each team’s performance throughout the matches will shape their standing in this thrilling contest, making every game crucial.
Hockey India President’s Enthusiasm:
Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey expressed his absolute delight at hosting the Asian Champions Trophy Chennai 2023. He hailed the schedule announcement as a landmark day, igniting the anticipation for the upcoming tournament. While Tirkey naturally hopes for India’s success, he acknowledged the determination of all participating nations and expects an exceptional display of hockey throughout the event.
A Clash of Titans:
On August 9, hockey fans will witness an intense showdown between two powerhouses, India and Pakistan, who have achieved three titles each in the tournament’s history. This highly anticipated encounter between the most decorated nations is expected to electrify the audience and elevate the spirit of competition to new heights.
Chennai’s Grand Welcome to International Hockey:
Sekar J Manoharan, President of the Hockey Unit of Tamil Nadu, emphasized that the Asian Champions Trophy Chennai 2023 is an opportunity for Chennai to provide a grand welcome to international hockey. With the tournament schedule now unveiled, the excitement among passionate fans has reached new heights. The anticipation for a series of captivating matches is palpable, and all preparations are in motion to deliver a memorable tournament.
Asian Champions Trophy 2023 FULL SCHEDULE
| Date | Teams | Time (in IST) |
| 3 August 2023 | Korea vs Japan | 4 PM |
| Malaysia vs Pakistan | 6:15 PM | |
| India vs China | 8:30 PM | |
| 4 August 2023 | Korea vs Pakistan | 4 PM |
| China vs Malaysia | 6:15 PM | |
| India vs Japan | 8:30 PM | |
| 5 August 2023 | Rest Day | |
| 6 August 2023 | China vs Korea | 4 PM |
| Pakistan vs Japan | 6:15 PM | |
| India vs Malaysia | 8:30 PM | |
| 7 August 2023 | Japan vs Malaysia | 4 PM |
| Pakistan vs China | 6:15 PM | |
| India vs Korea | 8:30 PM | |
| 8 August 2023 | Rest Day | |
| 9 August 2023 | Japan vs China | 4 PM |
| Malaysia vs Korea | 6:15 PM | |
| India vs Pakistan | 8:30 PM | |
| 10 August 2023 | Rest Day | |
| 11 August 2023 | 5/6th Place | 3:30 PM |
| Semifinal 1 | 6 PM | |
| Semifinal 2 | 8:30 PM | |
| 12 August 2023 | 3/4th Place | 6 PM |
| Final | 8:30 PM |
