A win against the Chinese would ensure India through to Friday’s semifinals. But even if they lose, the Indian eves will still be in contention for the last four stage.
In that case, India will have to beat Malaysia in their last Group A match to qualify as group runners-up.
Judging by the credentials, China are clear favourites as they had won a silver at the last Olympics, a gold in the last Asian Games and a third rank in the FIH ladder, clear 11 rungs above India.
The Indians will though have to improve their performance several notches up than their earlier two matches when they play China who are in the elite league.
Published 02 November 2009, 15:54 IST