Indian men's route to hockey final looks easier after South Africa upset NZ

Birmingham: The Indian men's hockey team would fancy its chances of at least securing a silver medal from the Commonwealth Games as it will start as the overwhelming favourite against a lower-ranked South Africa in the first semifinal in Birmingham on Saturday.

The Indians were awarded the golden opportunity after South Africa stunned defending champions New Zealand in their final match to finish second in Pool A behind six-time champions Australia.

India, on the other hand, finished on top of Pool B ahead of England to avoid Australia in the last four round.

The Indians have been unbeaten in the tournament so far, registering three wins and a draw. South Africa, on the other hand, have recorded two victories and a draw and a loss each.

Going by current form and world stature, the world no.5 Indians will start as overwhelming favourites against world no.13 South Africa.

Also read: Commonwealth Games 2022: Harmanpreet's hat-trick puts India in hockey semis

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