LAHORE, April 4: Defending champions PIA, beefed-up by the presence of star striker Shahbaz Ahmad, face HBL in what is being billed an explosive semifinal of the 49th national hockey championship Friday.

Led by international Mohammad Khalid, the group “A” leaders HBL play group “B” runners-up PIA in the first semifinal at 1.30pm.

PIA, who were shocked 3-0 by youthful PTCL in a pool match despite having the services of striker Shahbaz who has staged his third comeback into the squad, have long queue of veterans.

Besides Shahbaz, the national carrier who will be led by Olympian Kamran Ashraf, have Mohammad Usman, Shafqat Malik, Rahim Khan, Qamar Ibraheem and Ahmad Alam.

The bankers having several internationals in their ranks, including Pakistan penalty corner specialist, Sohail Abbas, are also a formidable side.

Apart from Sohail, HBL have Pakistan spearhead Kashif Jawwad, midfielder Waseem Ahmad, and discarded forwards Sameer Hussain and Naveed Iqbal.

In the second semifinal at 3.30pm, group “B” leaders ABL meet group “A” runners-up NBP.

ABL, will be led by a former Pakistan coach Khawaja Junaid, while Olympian Tahir Zaman, who has replaced Hanif Khan as coach recently, will lead NBP.

ABL, with Pakistan captain Mohammad Sarwar, Aleem Raza and Mohammad Saqlain in the line-up, the ABL are likely to give a tough time to NBP.