History beckons Australia in WC semifinal against Netherlands, Belgium to face England

A rare history awaits two-time defending champions Australia as they chase a record hat-trick of titles, taking on Netherlands in the semi-finals of the men's hockey World Cup at the Kalinga Stadium here on Saturday.

World no. 1 Australia is second only to four-time champions Pakistan, having won the world title thrice before, which includes back-to-back gold medals in the last two editions of the tournament in 2010 and 2014.

Come Saturday, the Kookaburras will be chasing their third consecutive world crown. But it would be easier said than done as in world no.4 Netherlands a tough contest awaits Australia.

The Dutch, who have won the title thrice before -- the last time being in 1998 --, too would be desperate to break their 20-year-old jinx.

Netherlands would be high on confidence especially after their hard-fought 2-1 win over home favourites India in the quarterfinals on Thursday.

Going by form and world ranking, it is expected to be an edge of the seat thriller between the two ...