Pakistan, Aug. 14 -- Pakistan will begin their FIH Men's World Cup campaign against England on Saturday, returning to hockey's biggest stage after an eight-year absence with a young squad.

The Pool D opener will take place at Wagener Hockey Stadium in Amstelveen, Netherlands, with the match scheduled to start at 10pm Pakistan Standard Time.

Team manager Muhammad Awais Qarni said the players were fit and excited, while noting that most of the squad members would be making their World Cup debuts.

Only Ammad Shakeel Butt and captain Abu Bakar have previous World Cup experience, meaning Pakistan will rely on their leadership as the young team faces a challenging opening match.

During preparations, Pakistan played warm-up games against Sou...