Hockey: The Irish men's team face a daunting task if they are to successfully retain their Setanta Sports Trophy crown this summer after the line-ups were announced this afternoon.
Ireland, who defeated Canada in the last year's final having emerged from the group phase with a 100 per cent record, will again face the Canadians along with Great Britain and Pakistan when the tournament gets underway in June.
Given that all the visiting nations have qualified for the Olympics and will be stepping up their preparations ahead of Beijing, it is unlikely Dave Passmore's side will have things all their own way this time around.
In the women's event, current Olympic champions Germany will again be on hand to defend their title with Ireland also facing the highly-ranked British and South African sides.
"The ability to attract top quality opposition to this event demonstrates the progress made by our national teams," Passmore said today.
"It is essential our players are exposed to high quality tournament hockey which is so vital in developing players and enabling them to develop the skills required to achieve at the highest level."
Setanta Sports Trophy Schedule 2008
Wednesday 11th June 2008
Great Britain v Germany (W)
Great Britain v Canada (M)
Ireland v South Africa (W)
Ireland v Pakistan (M)
Thursday 12th June 2008
Great Britain v South Africa (W)
Great Britain v Pakistan (M)
Ireland v Germany (W)
Ireland v Canada (M)
Saturday 14th June 2008
South Africa v Germany (W)
Ireland v Great Britain (W)
Pakistan v Canada (M)
Ireland v Great Britain (M)
Sunday 15th June 2008
Finals